I've tried to bring the mentality of the outside linebacker to the inside and the rough, tough style of an inside linebacker to the outside. The middle linebacker always has been known as kind of a big plugger. Outside guys are known to be able to run. I just try to make big plays wherever I am.

Second retirement
Seau announced his intention to retire for a second time on the television program Inside the NFL on January 13 2010. He transcended the game. '" This prompted him to apologize to his coaches teachers and principal at Oceanside High.

Later studies by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) concluded that Seau suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) a type of chronic brain damage that had also been found in other deceased former NFL players. Seau retired from pro football after the 2009 season.