Charles Woodson announces he will retire after the regular season

Oakland Raiders defensive back Charles Woodson announced on Monday that he will be retiring following the conclusion of this current season. He left for Green Bay in 2006 where he spent 7 seasons, winning a Super Bowl in 2010 and Defensive Player of the Year in 2011.

In what could be the final home game for the Raiders’ in Oakland, it will definitely be the final home game for superstar safety Charles Woodson. Woodson says he realized late last month that he couldn’t play another season and wanted to announce his decision before playing his final home game Thursday night against San Diego. An eight-time Pro Bowler and the 2009 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Woodson is the only player in NFL history to record at least 50 interceptions and 20 sacks.

Woodson was drafted fourth overall by the Raiders in 1998. “I’ve been emotional all day, so it will be that way Thursday for Raider Nation”, Woodson said, according to NBCSports.com.

Woodson said his body could get through another National Football League season, but he just thinks it’s time to move on with other things in his life. “Honestly, physically I could do it, but mentally it’s not there”. It would be great to see one more for old time’s sake in the next couple weeks.

After two more games, the Hall of Fame clock starts ticking for Woodson.

Woodson signed a one-year contract in January to remain with the Raiders. He is expected to be a first ballot Hall of Famer once eligible. Instead he returned to the Raiders where he has been an above average safety and mentor for three seasons, with five interceptions in 14 games so far this year.

“I’ve had an incredible career”, he said.