Former Trojan defensive end Kenechi Udeze is retiring from football. He was diagnosed with leukemi in February 2008. The Minnesota Vikings have placed on Udeze on the reserve/retired list. Udeze was Minnesota’s first-round draft pick in 2004. Udeze tried to make a miraculous comeback to professional football but it just didn’t work out.

Kenechi made a statement earlier today on his retirement:

“… I am well. Unfortunately, however, I have decided to retire due to certain side effects from my pre-transplant treatment. I would like to thank the Wilf family and the Minnesota Vikings organization for their support. I would also like to thank my fans, friends and family for supporting me through everything. Last but not least, I would like to thank all of the medical professionals and staff in Minnesota who worked tirelessly to give me a second chance at life. God bless.”

From 2001-2003 at USC, Udeze had 135 tackles (51 of them for a loss), 28 sacks, 14 forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, one interception, five pass deflections, and two blocked kicks. He is truly one of the best to ever play defensive end at USC.

Thoughts and prayers go out to the Udeze family.

Udeze ends comeback try [espn]