Seven-time Pro Bowl free safety Brian Dawkins, a second-round pick in the 1996 NFL Draft, signed a five-year deal with the Denver Broncos on Saturday ending a 13-year tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles. Chairman/CEO Jeffrey Lurie and head coach Andy Reid thanked Dawkins for everything he did for the organization and wished him the best of luck in his new home.
Chairman/CEO Jeffrey Lurie:"Brian Dawkins has been one of the pillars of this franchise for 13 years. He helped lead us to five NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl. Brian embodies everything you look for in a professional athlete and human being. I have been fortunate to witness his impeccable character, his passion for the game of football and his commitment to being the best player he could be. I look forward to continuing a close relationship with him once his playing days are over. His legacy as an Eagle will last forever and will ultimately land him in Canton as a Hall of Famer."
Head coach Andy Reid: "Brian is one of the best players in franchise history and one of the most popular players to ever play in the city of Philadelphia. The Eagles organization, as well as the entire fan base, will miss him not only as a player but as a tremendous person. This is the toughest part of my job, no question. He gave this city 13 years of emotional, energetic football. We wish Brian and his family nothing but the best as he continues his career in Denver."