It’s a somber day. One of the greats, Weapon X, is calling it a career after 16 exciting years.

Did Brian Dawkins play a Hall of Fame worthy career? I don’t know but I look forward to reading the debates.

This is what I do know. Brian Dawkins terrorized the NFC East (AFC West too). He hit hard and is in the running for most popular player in Eagles history. Above all else Brian Dawkins is smart. He played smart and is smart enough to walk away while he still can, he suffered a serious neck injury that forced him to miss the end of last season. It’s just a shame we didn’t get to see him play with Peyton Manning.

Thanks for the memories, Mr. Dawkins.

@nhall

“You guys meant the world to me. This city and this organization means the world to me. So today I came back to Pittsburgh to grant Steeler Nation this one last request. Today I am officially retiring as a Pittsburgh Steeler. And as much as I will miss football, my teammates, coaches and everything about the game, I don’t want to play in any other uniform. The black and gold runs deep with me, and I will remain a Steeler for life.”

- Hines Ward

(Photo Gene J. Puskar /AP)

“The NFL has been an amazing page in this chapter of my life. I pray that all successive adventures offer me the same potential for growth, success and most importantly, fun. As for what’s next, I am excited about all the opportunities ahead—continuing my education, running The Ricky Williams Foundation and whatever other opportunities present themselves.”

- Ricky Williams on his retirement from the NFL

Jason Taylor says good bye to the game amongst his fellow soldiers. 

As tough as this game of football is, it too has its touching moments.

Adam Schefter is reporting that former Giants running back Tiki Barber has filed papers to come out of retirement. Tiki split with his wife who was pregnant with twins after getting caught cheating with a former NBC intern. Of course this destroyed his broadcasting career. I guess the guy has nothing else to do.

Favre files his retirement papers.  Again.