The full text of Foster's announcement is transcribed below. It has been edited into multiple paragraphs for clarity:
There comes a time in every athlete's career when their ambition and their body are no longer on the same page. I've reached that point. It's hard to write those words because this game been everything to me ... my therapy, my joy, my solace and my enemy.
I've learned to love every facet of this game, from the peak of accomplishment to the gutter of criticism. And it all makes the ride worthwhile. I've been fortunate enough to play many successful years in this league.
I've given a lot to this game and given up a lot for it. But it has returned to me more than I could have ever asked for. Faceless gladiators have been shuffled in and out of this arena for decades and I'm proud to have taken part in that legacy.
My father always said, "You'll know when it's time to walk away." It has never been more clear than right now.I'm walking away with peace. I know it's not commonplace to do it midseason, but my body just can't take the punishment this game asks for any longer.
I want to thank the Miami Dolphins, with everything in me, for allowing me to bow out with grace and making this process as easy as possible. It means everything to my family and I, I've created lifelong relationships in my short time there that I'm forever thankful for.
Every athlete would love to go out as a Super Bowl MVP, riding off into the sunset with the crowd cheering their name. Unfortunately, life has other plans and they're usually opposite the imagination. But that imagination got me this far and I could not be prouder of the things my teammates and I accomplished in this game.
I'd like to send a sincere thank you to all those who I've come in contact with throughout this journey. This is a beautifully violent game and the same reason I loved it is why I have to walk away. That bittersweet taste will forever linger with me, but on my next journey, I get to carry those memories with me. Hopefully, lol (emoji peace sign)
