Bengals quarterback Greg McElroy has announced his retirement as an NFL player, via his Twitter account.

“Thank you to Marvin Lewis, the Brown family, and the entire Cincinnati Bengals’ organization,” McElroy wrote, referring to the team with which he had most recently signed a futures/reserve contract. “The fans make this decision especially difficult, as you have provided so much joy throughout my career. Playing in the NFL was my lifelong dream; therefore, I must also thank the New York Jets for providing me with my initial opportunity.”

McElroy, 25, was drafted in the 7th round in 2011 by the Jets, and spent two seasons with the team. The former Crimson Tide signal-caller appeared in two games for New York in the 2012 season — while he lost his only career start against the Chargers, he also led the Jets to a comeback victory over the Cardinals in his relief appearance, making his only NFL touchdown pass a game-winner.