Roughriders' Tearrius George retires amid assault charge

Saskatchewan Roughriders defensive lineman Tearrius George announced his retirement Tuesday.

George, 33, faces an assault charge stemming from a domestic incident in late April, and is scheduled to appear in court May 12.

"I am stepping away from the game to focus on a personal issue," George said in a statement. "I would ask for people to respect my family's privacy during this time."

George, a nine-year CFL veteran, was set to enter his sixth season with Saskatchewan. He's the third Rider to retire this offseason, following offensive lineman Bruce Campbell and wide receiver Maurice Price.