Because its the game that determines everything. Who is to say the game doesn't have some backend code that if player X gets within Y yards of Z record after age 31-35 that a retirement is certain? Better yet, if player X gets within Y yards of Z record during games 10-16, then an injury would prevent the record breaking until next season, see above.
Being that Ian already talked about some spectacular presentation should you beat any All Time records, who is to say that doesn't happen.
It all boils down to money, while either of those ideas may be far fetched to some (for the sake of a dollar). Those dollars quickly add up at zero overhead cost to EA, so its all maximum profit.
People have the right to be upset when options are removed from a game and put back in as a micro transaction, regardless of price. Some people may be more frugal, not have access to a credit card or simply not wish to spend additional money on a game.