Broncos linebacker DeMarcus Ware ‘hanging up his cleats,’ to retire

Mar 13, 2017, 3:46 PM | Updated: 6:26 pm

DenverFan.com

After 12 years in the NFL, the last three with the Denver Broncos, future Hall of Fame linebacker DeMarcus Ware has called it quits.

Ware, who was facing free agency with his three-year deal with Denver expired, made his announcement via social media on Monday, saying his long-term health and quality of life “outweigh the spark and passion to play.”

“After a lot of thought and prayer, I’ve decided to accept the unknown and retire from my NFL career,” wrote Ware, who said he felt better than he had in years and had “tempting” opportunities to still play.

A post shared by Demarcus Ware (@demarcusware) on Mar 13, 2017 at 12:48pm PDT

Ware thanked his former teams — the Dallas Cowboys, where he played for nine seasons, and the Broncos, where he won his only championship in Super Bowl 50 — along with those who “had a hand in molding” him.

“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,” Ware said.

Over his decade and a half in the NFL, Ware earned nine trips to the Pro Bowl, four first-team All-Pro selections, and a spot on the 2000s NFL All-Decade Team.

His 138.5 sacks rank 8th all-time in the NFL, and he leaves the game with 3 interceptions, 35 forced fumbles, 8 fumble recoveries, 505 tackles, and 3 touchdowns.

Among those reaching out to congratulate Ware was his former boss, Broncos general manager John Elway.

“DeMarcus Ware is the epitome of what you want an NFL player to be,” Elway said in a release. “He was a tremendous player in this league, a tremendous leader in the locker room and a great ambassador in the community.”

Plenty of others paid tribute to Ware via social media.

Wishing all the best to #DallasCowboys franchise sack leader as he retires from the @NFL! #CowboyForLife https://t.co/PeZSPZOTsh

— Dallas Cowboys (@dallascowboys) March 13, 2017