Dec. 23, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA: Chicago Bears injured linebacker Brian Urlacher prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Longtime Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher was looking for a job after parting ways with the Bears earlier in the offseason, but his wait is over. Instead of starting his career with a new team, Urlacher has decided to hang up his cleats. Urlacher’s retirement has come as a surprise, but it is better to see him retire as a Chicago Bear and go out with some class.

It was an honor to play my entire career for the @chicagobears say.ly/GOh5Sxs

— Brian Urlacher (@BUrlacher54) May 22, 2013

Urlacher attached the following statement:

After spending a lot of time thinking about my NFL future, I have made a decision to retire. Although I could continue playing, I’m not sure I would bring a level of performance or passion that’s up to my standards. When considering this, along with the fact that I could retire after a 13 year career wearing only one jersey for such a storied franchise, my decision became pretty clear. I want to thank all of the people in my life that have helped me along the way. I will miss my teammates, my coaches, and the great Bears fans. I’m proud to say that I gave all of you everything I   had every time I took the field. I will miss this great game, but I leave it with no regrets.

Just this offseason, the NFL has lost two of the greatest linebackers to ever play the game in Urlacher and Ray Lewis.

It will be strange to turn on the television set every Sunday without seeing those two men showcase their skills.