Fansided

5 all-time great NFL players who need to retire after the 2014 season

By Michael Collins

Sep 21, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) during the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at CenturyLink Field. Seattle defeated Denver 26-20. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 21, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) during the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at CenturyLink Field. Seattle defeated Denver 26-20. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 8, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; San Diego Chargers linebacker Dwight Freeney (93) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Chargers 18-17. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 8, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; San Diego Chargers linebacker Dwight Freeney (93) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Chargers 18-17. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Dwight Freeney, DE/LB – San Diego Chargers

Age: 34
Years in NFL: 13
Career highlight number: 110 career sacks
Hall of Fame credentials: Yes

Freeney, much like John Abraham, has seen the pounding of the modern day NFL take its toll on his body. Shifting from DE to OLB in San Diego hasn’t done much to help his declining numbers either.

There was a time with the Colts when Dwight Freeney was one of the most feared pass rushers in the league, and was someone that offensive coordinators had to game plan around. Now they just hope he doesn’t luck into an open lane for a sack.

He was only able to play in four games for the Chargers in 2013, and he hasn’t been much of an impact player for the San Diego defense this season.

Freeney got his Super Bowl ring while in Indianapolis, so unlike the first two players on this list, there won’t be any regrets of not winning the big one, which should make the decision to retire a little easier on Freeney.

Last rodeo for the one-time great Colt.

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