PITTSBURGH — David DeCastro’s goal was to play 10 years in the National Football League, and he did. And it’s possible he could still play again.

But after being released by the Steelers on Thursday and facing a third surgery on an ankle that bothered him for most of last season, DeCastro, 31, is realistic his sterling and decorated career is likely over.

“The body just kind of gave out,” DeCastro said. “You do everything you can, but sometimes it’s not enough. It’s been a good run. I can’t be too disappointed.”

In an interview witha Pittsburgh media outlet on Friday, DeCastro said his release is not considered injury-related because he started the last 12 games of the 2020 season, including the playoff loss to the Cleveland Browns.

DeCastro did not rule out the possibility he could play again after this latest surgery — “My wife thinks I’ll play again, she knows me,” he said — but he is not sure how the injury will respond going forward. If not, he is content with the career he had — six Pro Bowls, two first-team All-Pro selections — and what he meant to the Steelers.

“It all depends how (the surgery) turns out,” DeCastro said. “I really couldn’t tell you right now. We’ll see and I’ll move on from there. We’ll see how the body is. I’ll be honest with myself. I tried to trick myself and give it a fair shot, but the body never lies to you.

“Playing 10 years was always my goal. I’ve been living my dream playing in the NFL. I’m pretty content and happy with what I’ve done and proud of it.”