DeMarcus Ware Retires

Denver Broncos linebacker DeMarcus Ware retired today after playing 12 seasons in the NFL. Ware was a 9-time Pro Bowler and won a Super Bowl ring in 2015.

Ware posted the news to his twitter and instagram pages giving glory to God for his career and citing 2 Timothy 4:7: “I have fought the good fight. I have finished my course. I have kept the faith.”

It's time … After a lot of thought and prayer, I've decided to accept the unknown and retire from my NFL career. Tempting opportunities still present themselves for me to play and I feel better than I have in years. However, long term health and quality of life outweigh the spark and passion to play that I once had. With that, I take this opportunity to thank all of the people in my life who had a hand in molding me into a great player and the God fearing man I am today. I thank the Dallas Cowboys and Denver Broncos for opportunities to experience what greatness feels like. I will miss my teammates, coaches, and fans, who supported me over the years. I’m hanging up my cleats and beginning the journey to my next destination. "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7, KJV

A post shared by Demarcus Ware (@demarcusware) on

Ware played his first 9 seasons in the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys and is their all-time leader in sacks (117). In his announcement, he thanked all the people who helped make a difference in his career. “I take this opportunity to thank all of the people in my life who had a hand in molding me into a great player and the God fearing man I am today.”

Ware spoke to The Increase last year and shared how important his faith in Jesus is.

“Jesus Christ has always been the center of who I am,” says DeMarcus. “If you’re not a part of something, how do you know your purpose? God is my purpose and I place all my hope and trust in who He is.”

Ware is one of only 3 players to record 10+ sacks in 7 straight seasons. His 138.5 sacks ranks eighth all-time. He’s almost certain to be elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame when he becomes eligible in 2022.

(PHOTO CREDIT: Jeffrey Beall)