Barry didnt want to retire, he just didnt want to play for the Lions. He has said, and im talking about this up and coming year, that he would consider coming back if the Lions would let him talk to other teams. He retired becase he was still under contract with the Lions and he wanted to play elsewhere, but the Lions wouldnt let him. The organization would rather watch the man retire so close to the record, watch what could be the best running back ever top off a remarkable career, rather then simply give him up. Thats some shady ass shit if you ask me.