AUSTINTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – Austintown Fitch graduate Billy Price announced that he is recovering from a pulmonary embolism and retiring from the National Football League.

He made the announcement on social media on Saturday morning.

In the blink of an eye, everything can be taken away. On April 24th I had emergency pulmonary embolism surgery to remove a saddle clot that was entering both of my lungs. As a healthy 29 year old, an unprovoked pulmonary embolism with no further medical explanation is terrifying. I am truly thankful to be alive today. Unfortunately, I will be retiring from the NFL as the risk of an internal bleed while on blood thinners creates tremendous risk.

I am truly thankful for the opportunity to have played in some of the greatest atmospheres around the world. I am thankful to have trained and played alongside men who will continue to make Pro Bowls, All Pro Rosters and Hall of Fame recognitions.

To my wife: this career would not have been possible without your continued love and support. The sacrifices you have made over the course of my career do not go unnoticed. I cannot wait to navigate the next chapter in life with you as we continue to grow our family.

Billy Price

Price entered the National Football League as the No. 21 overall selection of the Cincinnati Bengals.

After three seasons in Cincinnati, he was traded to the New York Giants. He later spent time with the Las Vegas Raiders, Arizona Cardinals, New Orleans Saints and Dallas Cowboys (practice squad).

The 29-year-old appeared in 69 career games in the NFL with 45 starts.

During his college career at Ohio State, the two-time All-American was a four-year starter with the Buckeyes. As a senior at OSU, he won the Rimington Trophy, which is given to the nation’s top center. He was also named the Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year following his final college season.

During his high school career at Austintown Fitch, Price was named to the WKBN Big 22 Class of 2012.