HUNTSVILLE, Alabama -- Former Alabama All-American linebacker Rolando McClain issued a statement today to explain his sudden retirement, saying that he needs to focus on his personal life.
He also left the door open to return to football.

McClain, 23, is entering just his fourth season in the NFL and had recently signed a one-year contract with the world champion Baltimore Ravens.

But issues away from the field -- including a series of arrests in his hometown of Decatur -- appear to be a factor in walking away from football.

Court records also show he and fiancee Capri Knox received a marriage license last month in Madison County.

"Clearly, my decision to retire has raised some questions," McClain said in his statement released by SportsTrust Advisors. "Quite simply, I love football, but I have decided at this time it is in my best interest to focus on getting my personal life together. Beyond that, I'm not sure what the future holds for me, including football.

"This was entirely my decision and the Ravens have been very supportive during this process. I am very grateful for the opportunity they gave me and wish them the best of luck in the future. God willing, maybe I'll play for them one day."

McClain was a first-round draft pick by the Oakland Raiders in 2010 and was released after three seasons.

His brushes with police in Decatur have been frequent, most recently an arrest last month for disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

McClain purchased a house in the upscale Clift's Cove community in Madison in January but the house has been placed back on the market and last week, a "for sale" sign in the yard listed the house as sold.