Indianapolis Colts: Ex-Colt Quinn Pitcock Attempts Comeback

Ex-Colt Quinn Pitcock retired at the age of 24 due to, of all things, an addiction to video games.

The former All-American from Ohio State is attempting a comeback and signed with the Seattle Seahawks Thursday.

Pitcock was drafted in the third round (98th overall) in the 2007 NFL draft and appeared in nine games as a rookie for the Indianapolis Colts. He recorded 18 total tackles, 13 solo and 1.5 sacks in 2007, despite only starting one game.

After his rookie year, Pitcock left the Colts because he suffered from depression and mild anxiety which led to the festering of his harbored addiction for video games. He found himself staying inside, isolated from family, friends and teammates, playing for hours.

“I ended up using video games as my out, I got sucked into that. I got lost to the world," Pitcock said.

Pitcock said he lacked confidence during his first year in Indy and worried about his ability to play at the NFL level. He left the Colts because he felt like he was hampering the team and didn't belong.

"I didn't think I was good enough mentally for the team," he said. "I thought it was best for my team, if I wasn't ready. So I left. Looking back, I wasn't so stubborn and finally got some help."

After leaving the Colts, Pitcock sought treatment and found that he was not alone. He discovered that many athletes suffer from depression and anxiety, it just isn't commonly covered in the media.

"As I found out later, a lot of athletes do deal with depression and anxiety and a lot of issues," he said. "But it doesn’t really get covered as much because being alpha males and just being the strong type, you try not to show your weaknesses.”

After a year-long rehabilitation, Pitcock is finally feeling confident about himself. He is enjoying being back in the NFL and no longer worries as much about his abilities and concentrates on enjoying what he loves.

"I got back to my inner child. Before, I was worried about football. Now, I'm not so worried. I just live life to the fullest."

This is a refreshing story, an athlete who despite some personal problems was able to overcome the difficulties that hampered his abilities.

If Pitcock is able to make the Seahawks' roster and find a way into the rotation at defensive tackle, he could offer production and some intensity.

There is nothing like losing something and fighting to get it back. It is all the motivation he will need.