Durant announces his retirement after 12 seasons

Darian Durant has called it a career.

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers quarterback surprisingly announced his retirement Friday on his website. The 35-year-old was poised to report to Blue Bombers training camp on May 20.

“I have some opportunities away from the field that will allow me to transition smoothly into the next stage of my life,” Durant said.

“I also became a father earlier this year and I being able to see my daughter grow up day-by-day has played a big part in this decision.”

The five-foot-11, 214-pound Durant was entering his first season with Winnipeg after signing with the Bombers as a free agent in January.

He spent last season with the Montreal Alouettes before being released.

Durant spent 11 seasons with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, leading the club to consecutive Grey Cup appearances (2009-10) before winning in 2013. The native of Florence, S.C., also was a backup when the Riders won the Canadian Football League title in 2007.

Durant appeared in 174 career games over 12 CFL seasons, starting 128. He compiled 31,740 passing yards and 167 TDs.

Durant stands 14th in all-time passing yards, registered 38 300yard games and seven times had more than 400 yards passing in a contest. He also had 24 rushing TDs.

The Bombers were looking to Durant to back up veteran starter Matt Nichols. Winnipeg GM Kyle Walters admitted the club was caught by surprise with Durant’s decision.