Brian Dawkins To Retire From NFL After 16 Years


Veteran safety Brian Dawkins is calling it quits after spending 16 years in the National Football League. The pro safety’s announcement was made on Monday via his personal Twitter account.

In announcing his retirement Dawkins proclaimed:

“The Lord has blessed me to play in the NFL for 16 years. 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. #BBTB.”

Dawkins played for 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles after being drafted in 1996 and then spent his last three seasons with the Denver Broncos.

A force to be reckoned with on the field Brian Dawkins was named first team All-NFL four times by the Associated Press and he would appear in eight Pro Bowl games during his career.

Dawkins leaves behind a career that has included 37 career interceptions, 1,131 tackles and 26 sacks.

NFL.com’s Gregg Rosenthal says above and beyond everything he accomplished in the NFL the veteran safety will be remembered for his leadership. Rosenthal writes:

“For all that Dawkins accomplished after the ball was snapped, he will be remembered best for his leadership. His intensity was palpable whether addressing his teammates or the media. He led by example, but wasn’t afraid to speak up when necessary. He always knew what to say and that passion and love for the game carried over to his teammates.”

Here’s a short “highlights” tribute video that was put together by a Brian Dawkins fan:

[iframe src=”http://www.youtube.com/embed/q_PQEMklYmI” width=”560? height=”315?]

Our best wishes to Dawkins as he rides off into the retirement sunset.

Share this article: Brian Dawkins To Retire From NFL After 16 Years
More from Inquisitr