Denver Broncos

Former Cowboys, Broncos Pro Bowl LB DeMarcus Ware retires from the NFL

Published Mar. 13, 2017 5:40 p.m. ET

Cameron DaSilva

DeMarcus Ware, one of the all-time great pass rushers the NFL has ever seen, decided to call it a career Monday, formally announcing his retirement after 12 seasons.

He finishes eighth all-time in NFL history with 138.5 career sacks, while also adding 35 forced fumbles and nine Pro Bowl appearances. Arguably the biggest accolade of them all, though, came two years ago when he won a Super Bowl with the Broncos.

https://twitter.com/DeMarcusWare/status/841375464484667392

Ware played just 10 games in 2016 due to a fractured forearm and back injury, having surgery on both injuries. An impending free agent, Ware likely had suitors on the open market, but it’s clear he’s at peace with his decision.

Back injuries are nothing to take lightly, and while he likely could have played another season, he steps away from the game on his terms, putting long-term health before the game of football.

The Cowboys reportedly have already reached out to Ware in the hopes he would sign a one-day contract and retire with the franchise.

https://twitter.com/SlaterNFL/status/841396301212315649