Brian Dawkins To Retire

Added on Apr 23, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

One of the best safeties to ever don a professional uniform is calling it a career. After 16 seasons with the Eagles and Broncos, free safety Brian Dawkins has decided to retire. Following two injury-plagued years in Denver, Dawkins needed time to weigh his options. At 38, with careful consideration, the man known as ‘Weapon X’ felt now was the time to hang up the cleats.

Because it’s the thing to do in 2012, Dawkins took to Twitter to announce his retirement earlier today.

“The Lord has blessed me to play in the NFL for 16 years,” Dawkins said. “I would like to thank the Eagles & the Broncos 4 believing In me. I would like 2 thank all my teammates & Coaches that I have been blessed 2 go to battle with. Along with u, the fans 4 helping make my career 1 that i have enjoyed tremendously. In other words. I am announcing my retirement from the NFL.”

Dawkins brought a rabid intensity to the field during his career. He was a respected leader who was named to nine Pro Bowls, four first-team All-Pro teams and recorded 26 sacks and 37 interceptions. His leadership and penchant for making big plays in big games was integral to his game, especially during his prime in Philadelphia.

His on field persona was in direct contrast to his mild-mannered off the field personality. Watching him transform from soft-spoken defensive captain into fierce, hard-hitting missile was a sight to behold. He quickly became a fan favorite for his physical style of play and was a staple face during the Eagles five trips to the NFC title game from 2000-2008.

Dawkins stats and longevity make him a legitimate Hall of Fame candidate. Drafted in the second-round in 1996 out of Clemson, he played in an era of other great safeties like Ed Reed and Troy Polamalu, both of whom are headed to Canton on the first ballot.

Despite the lack of a Lombardi Trophy, there’s little question that Dawkins belongs in the conversation of the best to ever play at his position.

Source: NFL.com