Five-time 1,000-yard rusher announces his retirement - 'A miracle granted by God'
Matt Forte’s NFL career was outstanding, but not one that will earn him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
His retirement announcement, however, was as good as any speech you’ll hear delivered in Canton, Ohio.
On Wednesday, the New York Jets running back announced his retirement after 10 NFL seasons via a statement he gave exclusively to Sports Spectrum.
“For the past 10 years, I’ve been blessed to play professionally a game that I’ve loved since I was 6 years old,” Forte wrote. “But, after much prayer and reflection, I’ve decided to retire from the NFL.
“Like so many others before me, this game has enhanced my life in numerous ways. My career in the league has been nothing short of a miracle granted by God and put on display for His glory. I will cherish the many memories made on the field and the life-long friends I’ve made over the years in the locker room.”
Matt Forte announces his retirement: "‘Time for the workhorse to finally rest in his stable” https://t.co/OJ3Q77Dzgw pic.twitter.com/KrugvB3nhI
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) February 28, 2018
“I’m even more grateful that God blessed me with Gene and Gilda Forté, my two amazing parents that constantly supplied me with unending love, support, patience and motivation since I came into this world. I’ve become the man and father that I am today because of both of you.”
Forte went on to thank this wife, his agent for preparing him for life after football, the Jets organization and the Bears organization.
He also thanked the many coaches and teachers he had over the years, saying, “Thank you for your dedication and commitment to my growth and success as a person and player.”
Forte said the time was right to step away from the game.
“The past 25 years playing America’s game have left me with unparalleled joy. But, it’s time for the workhorse to finally rest in his stable,” Forte said. “While my heart is a bit heavy as I close this chapter of my life, I am excited about what the future holds. God Bless and Bear Down!”
Forte, 32, was a two-time Pro Bowler who spent his first eight seasons with the Bears and his final two with the Jets. Injuries limited him to just four starts this past season.
He rushed for more than 1,000 yards in five of his first seven seasons with the Bears and was just three yards shy of a 1,000-yard season in 2006.
With the Bears, Forte rushed for 8,602 yards, second only in franchise history to Walter Payton. He was the team’s second-round draft pick in 2008 out of Tulane University.
Forte leaves the game ranking 33rd all-time in rushing yards (9,796) and 28th in career scrimmage yards (14,468), according to Pro Football Reference.
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