Canadian NFL hero who volunteered on front lines of COVID-19 crisis opts out of 2020 season

The 29-year-old pro decided on his own terms that he will be stepping away from the season after working with patients on the front lines of the pandemic.

Duvernay-Tardif, who left his medical school studies to pursue a pro-football career said on Friday night that after working on the front lines he now has a "different perspective on this pandemic."

"This is one of the most difficult decisions I have had to make in my life but I must follow my convictions," wrote Duvernay-Tardif.

"I cannot allow myself to potentially transmit the virus in our communities simply to play the sport that I love. If I am to take risks, I will do it caring for patients."

He said he wants to reduce his risk of spreading the virus as much as possible after seeing the stress it has had on the country's health-care system, though he believes that staff with the Kansas City Chiefs’ will have a "strong plan" to avoid further spread.

Duvernay-Tardif talked about possibly working in long-care homes. At the end of his statement, he said "stay safe."

Duvernay-Tardif is the first pro football player to use his ability to opt-out for the season. He is currently in his third year of a contract with the Chiefs worth $42 million.