Brian Dawkins announces retirement via Twitter

DENVER — Broncos safety Brian Dawkins took to Twitter to announce his retirement Monday morning after playing in the NFL for 16 years.

“I would like to thank the Eagles & the Broncos 4 believing In me,” Dawkins said in a tweet.  “I would like 2 thank all my teammates & Coaches that I have been blessed 2 go to battle with. Along with u, the fans 4 helping make my career 1 that I have enjoyed tremendously.”

Dawkins played for the Broncos for the past three seasons after spending 13 years in Philadelphia with the Eagles.

“Brian Dawkins is one of the best to ever play the game, a future Hall of Famer who changed the way his position is played,” Head Coach John Fox said in a statement.”  “His contributions go far beyond the wins, interceptions, sacks and Pro Bowls he accumulated during his career. Brian is the definition of class and is what you want in a leader. I know our players, coaches, fans and so many within the National Football League feel the same way.”

Executive Vice President of Football Operations John Elway also took to Twitter to responded to Dawkins announcement.

“Thank you, @BrianDawkins, for being a GREAT Bronco and showing such an incredible commitment to your team and community,” Elway tweeted. “Congratulations on a Hall of Fame career, Dawk!!!”

Dawkins was a member of the all-decade team for the 2000s and was voted to play in 9 pro bowls.