WINNIPEG — Winnipeg Blue Bombers receiver Ryan Smith has announced his retirement from professional football.

The news, which was revealed on Friday in a press release from the team, is sudden and surprising from the 25-year-old pass-catcher out of Wahpeton, N.D.

Smith joined the Bombers in February 2016 as a free agent after spending his first two CFL seasons with Saskatchewan.

“Although this was an extremely difficult decision, it is one that I am ultimately comfortable with,” said Smith. “I have the opportunity to pursue interests outside of football, and I just feel this is the time for me to step away.

“I would truly like to thank the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, my teammates, the CFL, and the fans of the Blue Bombers. Most importantly, Mr. Wade Miller, Kyle Walters and Coach O’Shea for their understanding and support throughout this process, and ultimately my decision.

“I will miss the game and the great people in it, but this was the right decision for me at this time.”

Last year, Smith accumulated 488 yards on 53 carries for one touchdown in 11 games. His best performance came in the Western Semi-Final against the BC Lions where he posted 106 yards on seven receptions for two scores.

In 2015, the North Dakota State product led the Riders in receiving yards and touchdowns, finishing with 59 receptions for 991 yards and seven touchdowns. Smith played in 24 games over two seasons with Saskatchewan, starting in 22.

As a Bison, Smith played in 54 games, pulling in 147 passes for 1,783 yards and eight touchdowns while also returning kicks. He was named to the All-Missouri Valley Football Conference Second All-Star Team in 2012 as a wide receiver and returner and received the 2012 MVFC Commissioner’s Academic Excellence Award.