Packers DL B.J. Raji says he will take "hiatus" in 2016

By foxsports
Published

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) Defensive tackle B.J. Raji says he is taking a hiatus from the NFL and will not play in 2016 following seven seasons with the Green Bay Packers.

Raji said Monday in a statement that he made the decision after hours of conversation with family members and mentors. He did not rule out a return to the field, but said that he ''will definitely not be playing during the 2016 season.''

The statement was provided by Raji's agents. The Green Bay Press-Gazette first reported Raji's decision.

Raji was a free agent after having a good season in 2015 with 22 tackles in 15 regular-season games. His decision leaves a hole up front in the Packers' run defense.

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