Brian Urlacher Announces Retirement

Dec 11, 2011; Denver, CO, USA; Chicago Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher (54) gets around a block by Denver Broncos tight end Daniel Fells (86) during the game at Sports Authority Field. The Broncos defeated the Bears 13-10. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

It is official, Brian Urlacher has announced his retirement from the NFL.

From Brian Urlacher’s whosay.com account, here is what he had to say:

"After spending a lot of time this spring thinking about my NFL future, I have made a decision to retire. Although I could continue playing, I’m not sure I would bring a level of performance or passion that’s up to my standards. When considering this, along with the fact that I could retire after a 13 year career wearing only one jersey for such a storied franchise, my decision became pretty clear. I want to thank all of the people in my life that have helped me along the way. I will miss my teammates, my coaches, and the great Bears fans. I’m proud to say that I gave all of you everything I had every time I took the field. I will miss this great game, but I leave it with no regrets."

As a Chicago Bear’s fan who just got over the fact that Brian Urlacher was no longer a Chicago Bear, this announcement brings closure. I am happy as a fan to see Brian Urlacher retire as a Chicago Bear. I don’t know if I could look at him the same way wearing any other teams jersey. Maybe the Broncos, they have similar colors to the Bears.

I am looking forward to seeing what is next for Brian Urlacher. He will probably become an NFL analyst and open a restaurant. You know, like Ditka.

How do you feel about his retirement? What do you think he will do now that he is no longer playing football? Do you think the Broncos have similar jersey colors to the Bears? Let me know in the comments section below, and remember to Bear Down!