West Australian Marcus Adams has been forced to give up his AFL dream as concussion symptoms take their toll on the Brisbane defender.

The 30-year-old told his teammates this week, more than a year after he experienced a delayed concussion a head knock against Carlton in round 21 last season.

He was placed on the inactive list in January and allowed time to recover before further medical advice to cease participation in contact sport prompted Wednesday’s announcement.

“While no part of me really wants to let it go, I know it’s the right decision for me,” Adams said while thanking the club and his family and friends for their support.

“The whole journey is something I will remember very fondly, and even though it hasn’t ended how I would’ve liked, it has been the best experience I could have hoped for.”

It’s a cruel blow for Adams who was in career-best form becoming a vital part of Brisbane’s backline before his injury.

It was revealed earlier this year that Adams could barely run such was the severity of his symptoms.

He is the fourth player to retire due to concussion this month following that of Sydney’s Paddy McCartin, Hawthorn ruck Max Lynch and Adleaide’s Paul Seedsman.

Constant injuries meant the former Western Bulldogs back was restricted to 73 games across seven seasons.

“While it has been a challenging 12 months for Marcus, we have all admired the way he has handled the situation, which speaks volumes of him as a person and professional,” football boss Danny Daly said.

“The health and wellbeing of all players and staff is always our main priority and all we want for Marcus is for him to be fit, healthy and happy.

“On the field Marcus was an important player for us as a reliable, strong defender and off the field he was very popular amongst his teammates and Lions fans alike.

“Marcus and his family will always be part of the Brisbane Lions family and we wish him all the best for life after football and will always be here for him.”