Chris Borland to pay back part of signing bonus after announcing early retirement

SAN FRANCISCO, March 23 (UPI) -- San Francisco 49ers linebacker Chris Borland is paying back three-fourths of his signing bonus after announcing his early retirement from the NFL.

Borland's decision to retire at the age of 24 shocked many in the league. He said his decision was based on the high risk of brain damage sustained by football players over their careers.

Speaking on CBS' Face the Nation Sunday, Borland said it was "the best decision for me." He added that he will be paying back ta quarter of his signing bonus to the 49ers after he was asked if it was a "cash grab."

"Absolutely not. To play one year, it's not a cash grab as I've been accused of. I'm paying back three-fourths of my signing bonus. I'm only taking the money I've earned," he said. "This to me is just about health and nothing else. I've never played the game for money or attention. I love football. I've had a blast and I don't regret the last 10 years of my life at all. I'd do it over the exact same way. From here on I'm looking forward."

Borland was signed for a four-year contract. Giving back the $463,077 will slightly bump the 49ers nearly $14.82 million salary cap space.