Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: WEDNESDAY, August 10, 1994 TAG: 9408110025
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B4 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: FROM STAFF AND ASSOCIATED PRESS REPORTS
DATELINE: LENGTH: Short
``I wasn't retired,'' said Ware, challenging published reports. ``There were some personal matters that were affecting my performance and I didn't have my usual enthusiasm for the game.''
Ware, who played at William Fleming High School and the University of Virginia, was selected by the Jets in the fourth round of the 1993 draft and was on the roster for the entire 1993 season but did not play.
Ware, who played right tackle in college but was switched to left guard by the Jets, had moved up to second team by the time the Jets played Detroit in a preseason game Thursday night.
``Some issues were pressing hard against my heart,'' Ware said. ``I went to see the line coach and the offensive coordinator and they suggested I take a couple of days off. My phone's been ringing off the hook since it happened.''
The New York media made a connection between Ware's alleged retirement and efforts to free money under the salary cap for holdout offensive lineman Dave Cadigan,
``If and when I do come back - and I'm planning to come back unless something happens - I think I will play better than I have before,'' said Ware, a 6-foot-6, 295-pounder. ``I don't want people to think I'm quitting. I want to continue to be Roanoke's tie to the NFL.''
by CNB