Wisconsin star offensive lineman Jon Dietzen is medically retiring from football, making an announcement on Monday afternoon.

Dietzen, who cited numerous injuries for his reason to step away from the game, started at left guard for the Badgers last fall. In 2017, he was the starting left tackle. In November, when he was battling injuries, the offensive lineman said his “ankles, hips and other things” had been bothering him.

Dietzen made the announcement through a message he sent out on Twitter.

“After a lot of thought and careful consideration, I’ve decided it is in my best interest to step away from football due to numerous injuries,” Dietzen wrote. “This was not an easy decision, as I have enjoyed every second of my football career as a Wisconsin Badger.”

Since arriving in Madison, Dietzen appeared in 35 games for the Badgers, making 32 career starts — 20 at left guard and 12 at left tackle. He played in 12 games in 2018, missing only one due to injury.

He had one season of eligibility remaining.

Dietzen’s departure means Wisconsin must replace four of its starting five offensive lineman from the 2018 season.