Brian Westbrook Retires: Eagles RB Reflects On 9 Year NFL Career

Brian Westbrook retired as a member of the Eagles today after a 9 year NFL career, 8 of which were spent here in Philadelphia. He spoke today at a press conference at the Eagles’ NovaCare complex.

Westbrook reflected on a career that was nearly over before it began, when he tore his ACL in high school. But he was able to catch on at FCS level Villanova, where he set a number of records and caught the attention of NFL scouts. In his own words,

"When I think of myself, I think of Brian Westbrook from Fort Washington, Maryland to DeMatha [Catholic High School] injuries, to Villanova injuries, [and] to Philadelphia injuries. All of the good days [and] all of the bad days. A third round pick who was too small, who would only be a special teams player, to an All-Pro, to a two-time Pro Bowl selection, [and] to the franchise leader in total yards from scrimmage. It's been a great ride and I thank all of you people and everyone that has been here with me every step of the way. Thank you."

He also made sure to thanks Eagles head coach Andy Reid and Villanova head coach Andy Talley, both of whom he credits with being major influences on his life and career. He singled out a number of his former teammates including Brian Dawkins and Donovan McNabb. The former he called one of the greatest players and greatest men he’s ever known and the latter "the greatest QB this city has ever seen."

Westbrook also spoke highly of the Eagles organization under Andy Reid and owner Jeff Lurie. He said how many former teammates had told him that you don’t realize how great the organization is until you leave and he always felt that was just lip service. But he went to San Francisco for the one year he played there, he says realized that it’s true that Reid & Lurie have built the best organization in the NFL.

For more reaction to Brian Westbrook’s retirement, check out our Eagles blog Bleeding Green Nation and our Villanova site VUHoops.

Brian Westbrook Retirement: Press Conference Time, Where To Watch

Brian Westbrook is officially going to be a retired man by midday on Wednesday.

The former Philadelphia Eagles star is announcing his decision at 11:30 a.m. ET. It can be seen both on Comcast and online through the official team site.

Westbrook was a tremendous talent during his career. The Villanova product amassed 6,335 rushing yards and 3,940 receiving yards as one of the best dual-purpose threats in the NFL for years. During a time when Philadelphia had shaky receiving cores, Westbrook doubled as a pass-catching machine to help out Donovan McNabb.

Westbrook currently is the Eagles all-time leader in all-purpose yards (9,785).

According to Bleeding Green Nation, Philadelphia owner Jeffrey Lurie released the following statement:

"I will always remember Brian for the electrifying, game-changing plays he made during his great career in Philadelphia. He was one of those players you knew could score from anywhere on the field and one of the most exciting players I have ever watched. He was a great runner, receiver and returner and was certainly a fan favorite. We are thrilled to have him retire as an Eagle and we look forward to honoring him at Lincoln Financial Field on December 23 against the Redskins in what should be a very exciting atmosphere."

TV: CSN

Time: 11:30 a.m. ET

For more on Brian Westbrook, please be sure to check out our Eagles blog Bleeding Green Nation and our Villanova blog VUHoops.

Brian Westbrook To Retire As Eagle On Wednesday

Former Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook will retire as a member of the organization on Wednesday.