After being released by the Kansas City Chiefs, Eric Berry did not appear on an NFL roster during the 2019 season. Many wondered why that was, now we have our answer. Berry says he simply took the year off, turning offers down to play this season, according to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network.
Former Vols and Chiefs safety Eric Berry intentionally sat out the 2019 NFL season and plans to return for 2020, per @MikeGarafolo.
— Allan Bell (@AllanBell247) January 25, 2020
Berry had offers to play this season but turned them down to prepare himself both mentally and physically.
Berry has battled injuries over the last couple of seasons after fighting back from lymphoma in 2015. The now 10 year NFL vet will be looking for a new team in 2020, after at least speaking with the Browns and Cowboys last offseason.
The former five-star safety prospect played at Tennessee from 2007-2009. Berry registered 14 interceptions over three seasons, while racking up 245 tackles and three defensive touchdowns.
Berry has played just four 16 game seasons since entering the league in 2010. He remains an unrestricted free agent, but clearly the interest was good enough last year for Berry to pursue a gig in 2020.
At Tennessee Eric Berry was one of the most impactful defenders to come through Knoxville in the last 25 years. From game-changing interceptions to simply setting the tone as a physical hitter in the box, Berry did a little bit of everything for the Volunteers.
Here’s hoping Berry gets at least one more healthy season in the league.