Steven Jackson has hinted that he may retire at the end of the current NFL season.
The 29-year-old is to become a free agent as his contract with the St Louis Rams comes to an end.
The running back told The AP: "If I have to write my story. I'd rather go out like Barry Sanders and leaving people to want more than to leave too late.
"I'll allow myself that time to sit back and reflect and think about things I've accomplished in my career and what I've done this season. And think about how much longer I want to play this game, as well.
"There's going to be a small window of opportunity, and I want to make sure I take full advantage of it."
Jackson has previously said that he would like to end his career at St Louis.
The Rams face the Seattle Seahawks in their final game of the current season on Sunday.
