Each had a long, distinguished run. Each bowed out in his late 30s with acceptance that it was time to go. Their exits were anticipated and choreographed. In some cases, the parting ceremony suggested ascension instead of retirement. It's the sudden, unexpected withdrawal of an athlete at his early-30s peak that gives us cynics pause.
Some decisions stick.
Don Meredith and Don Perkins left the Cowboys at ages 31. Four-time Pro Bowl offensive tackle Pat Donovan was 30 when he turned in his pads. Jim Brown quit the Cleveland Browns as the NFL's all-time leading rusher at 30. I recall John Riggins retired for all time and didn't return to the Washington Redskins for an entire year. Retirement motives vary.