DeMarcus Ware announces his retirement

On Monday, DeMarcus Ware announced his retirement after 12 seasons in the NFL, with his next stop certainly the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

After 12 campaigns and nine Pro Bowls, one of the greatest pass-rushers of all time is now retiring. DeMarcus Ware, who played with both the Dallas Cowboys and Denver Broncos, announced his decision on Twitter.

Ware, 34, ends his career with a Super Bowl ring and 138.5 sacks, ranking him eighth on the career list. He played his first nine years with the Cowboys, enjoying seven consecutive campaigns of double-digit sacks. In 2008, Ware notched a career-high 20 sacks.

After coming to Denver before the 2014 season, he became a mentor for Von Miller and a leader on the defensive side of the ball. That year, Ware totaled 10 sacks and helped Denver to another AFC West title. The following season saw the Troy University star play in only 11 games, but he was healthy for a postseason run that culminated in a Super Bowl 50 victory.

Ware had become a free agent before retiring, perhaps influencing his decision. It’s hard to imagine that he doesn’t get into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.

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With Ware officially out of the fold, general manager John Elway will likely look to add some depth at outside linebacker, while turning over his starting spot to Shane Ray and Shaquile Barrett. Denver is also in the midst of a defensive transition, with coordinator Wade Phillips leaving to join the Los Angeles Rams.