Former all-pro wide receiver Tim Brown announced his retirement from football today. Brown signed a ceremonial contract before announcing his retirement so he could retire a Raider.
Brown spent 16 of his 17 NFL season with the Raiders organization before signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prior to the 2004 season.
'At some point in my career, I didn't think this day would ever come. I thought I'd just keep playing and keep playing,' Brown told reporters.
'I'm very glad this day has come and I can move on to the next phase of my life,' he added.
Brown won the Heisman Trophy as college football's best player in 1987 with Notre Dame. He finishes his career with 1,094 catches (third all-time) for 14,934 yards (second all-time) and 100 career receiving touchdowns (tied for third all-time). He is a near lock for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio shortly after he becomes eligible in 2009.
Ex-Raiders running back Marcus Allen was on hand for the announcement and had high praise for Brown.
'Tim, I think, is one of the finest human beings that I've ever met,' said Allen, who also referred to Brown's extensive charity work as well as his character. 'And one of the finest football players I've ever met, too.'
Raiders owner Al Davis was conspicuous by his absence. Davis and Brown have had a falling out after Brown was critical of the maverick Raiders owner just after his release from the team last August.
As for the future, Brown is exploring broadcasting opportunities with both Fox Sports and Sirius Radio. He may also become the first African American majority owner of a NASCAR team. Whatever he decides to do, don't bet against Tim Brown becoming a big success.
Football fans will certainly see him again in Canton in five years.
