Swope Park Rangers’ Justin Bilyeu Retires Unexpectedly

Thad BellOn Wednesday a surprise announcement was made by the Swope Park Rangers. Left back Justin Bilyeu announced his retirement at just 25-years-old. Bilyeu has decided to return due to ongoing concussion issues. In 2019 he started the SPR opener out of position at center back and has been out injured since that time.

Bilyeu joined the Rangers in March of 2018. He dealt with injuries at times in 2018 and only made 12 appearances (10 starts) for 875 minutes. He was initially drafted in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft as the 18th overall pick in the first round by the New York Red Bulls. Bilyeu ultimately made four appearances for the first team, 29 appearances for RBNY II before ending the 2017…