The Philadelphia Eagles are proud to announce that Brian Westbrook, one of the greatest running backs in franchise history, will officially retire as an Eagle tomorrow, Wednesday, August 29 at 11:30 AM at the NovaCare Complex.
In addition, Westbrook will be honored in front of the fans at Lincoln Financial Field on December 23 during halftime against the Washington Redskins.
Eagles Chairman/CEO Jeffrey Lurie on Westbrook: "I will always remember Brian for the electrifying, game-changing plays he made during his great career in Philadelphia. He was one of those players you knew could score from anywhere on the field and one of the most exciting players I have ever watched. He was a great runner, receiver and returner and was certainly a fan favorite. We are thrilled to have him retire as an Eagle and we look forward to honoring him at Lincoln Financial Field on December 23 against the Redskins in what should be a very exciting atmosphere."
Widely regarded as one of the NFL's most well-rounded running backs, Westbrook was not only prolific in the run game but was also known for his exceptional pass-catching and pass-blocking abilities. A two-time Pro Bowler, he finished his career with the Eagles in 2009 as the franchise leader with 9,785 total yards from scrimmage. He is one of six players in league history to post 30-plus rushing (41) and receiving touchdowns (30) in a career. His best season came in 2007, when he led the NFL with 2,104 scrimmage yards en route to Pro Bowl and All Pro honors.
One of the game's most electrifying and tough players, Westbrook played in 107 games (85 starts) in eight seasons with the Eagles from 2002-09. He currently ranks second in franchise annals in rushing yards (5,995), and third in receptions (426) and total touchdowns (68). Among Eagles running backs all-time, he tops the list in receptions, receiving yards (3790) and receiving touchdowns (29). In addition, Westbrook played in 11 playoff games with the team, ranking first in club history in career rushing yards (591) and total touchdowns (6).
Not only a dynamic player on offense, Westbrook also finished his career ranked fourth on the team's all-time list with a 12.8 yard average on punt returns. He returned two punts for touchdowns in his career, including a highlight reel, game-winning, 84-yard return for a score with 1:34 remaining against the New York Giants on October 19, 2003. He played in 14 games (5 starts) for the San Francisco 49ers in 2010, tallying 490 yards from scrimmage (340 rushing, 150 receiving) and five total touchdowns.
Originally a third-round draft choice of the Eagles in 2002 out of nearby Villanova, Westbrook was one of the most decorated players in NCAA Division I-AA history, setting the all-time record with 9,885 all-purpose yards.
The 32-year-old is a native of Hyattsville, Maryland, and played football and basketball at DeMatha High School. A true horse enthusiast off the field, Westbrook owns a 23-acre horse farm in Upper Marlboro, MD. For more information, please log on to www.westbrookhorsefarm.com.
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