Ex-Green Bay Packer S Sean Richardson seeks return to NFL

Former Green Bay Packers safety Sean Richardson wants to return to the football field despite undergoing a second cervical fusion surgery in January.

"It wasn't a tough decision. I love the game of football. My agent and (neck and spine specialist) Dr. (Robert) Watkins have made sure I've gone through the same protocols I did with my first injury," Richardson told ESPN's Adam Caplan. "I had multiple opinions from the top doctors just like after my first surgery. I've talked to my family and my agent and Dr. Watkins about the pros and cons.

"The worst that would happen is another herniated disk. We had five steps we had to check off to be able to start back playing, and I met all the criteria. I will be able to play at a high level again."

Richardson, who was cleared for non-contact work in April, said that he has heard from "a dozen teams lately checking in and keeping tabs."

The 26-year-old Richardson recorded three tackles over three games last season before his latest neck injury ended the campaign.

Richardson underwent his first fusion surgery during his rookie season in 2012.