However, Armstead, who suffered a heart attack during his collegiate career at the University of Southern California, was forced to sit out last season after picking up an infection.
And Armstead has now decided to end what had once looked to be a promising pro career.
"It has been a pleasure being around Armond, as he gave everything he could to play for us. Armond worked extremely hard since joining us last February," Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said in a statement on their website.
ADVERTISEMENT
"He's had a lot of adversity personally that he's had to deal with " unusual compared to most other players " but he's always had a great attitude, worked hard and really did everything we asked him to do.
"While it is unfortunate he will not be able to play football, Armond is an outstanding young man who has a very bright future in whatever path he chooses."
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7scHLrJxnppdktKq%2F02ilnq9dmruouMCnm2aokam%2FqrvTrGSdnZaau7S11Z5kpaGemrqiuoyaqaannpl6or7MrKuemZRiv6bAyKucrGearbm1g9eh