Homan's football days over following concussion

Sometimes, the toughest thing to do when playing a sport is knowing when it is time to call it quits.

For Ross Homan, the decision wasn't easy but necessary.

"Ultimately, I made a decision to not play football anymore," said the former Coldwater and Ohio State linebacker during a telephone interview on Thursday from his home in Columbus, a week after signing on to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' practice squad.

Homan has been battling the after-effects of a concussion suffered while playing a preseason game for the Minnesota Vikings, which drafted Homan in the sixth round of the 2012 NFL Draft.

When asked about the difficulty of such a decision, Homan confirmed it was difficult.

"Definitely. Football has been a part of my life my whole life," said Homan. "It was pretty tough to move away from (football). I'm looking forward to what life has to offer."

Homan suffered a concussion in the first half of a preseason game at Seattle and missed the Vikings' next game against Dallas. Homan returned for the final preseason game and had one of his best efforts, but the effects of the concussion continued to linger.

"I've had concussions in the past, but this one was a little more severe," said Homan. "This lasted a little bit longer (than in the past)."

After being released by the Vikings on the final day of cuts and then signing with the Bucs, Homan said the effects of the concussion prompted his decision to step away from football.

"It was frustrating," said Homan, talking about the effects. "You want it all to clear up right away, but it didn't. I took it as it is and moved on with it."

The Buccaneers were understanding of Homan's decision with the growing concerns of multiple concussions on athletes.

"They were always about safety first," said Homan. "My health always came first."

Homan's family, friends and former teammates and coaches through the years have been supportive of Homan through the ordeal.

"I got a lot of support, especially from my family," said Homan about his decision. "Past coaches have been supportive."

As for life after football, Homan, who earned a college degree from Ohio State, is keeping his options open.

"Still trying to figure things out," said Homan. "I'm still trying to get completely healthy and just go from there."