Suspended for the first eight games of the season for violating the NFL performance-enhancing drug policy, veteran nose guard Jason Ferguson has retired.
Ferguson played 13 seasons, spending the past two with the Dolphins after previous stints with the New York Jets and the Dallas Cowboys.
He was known as a true Bill Parcells guy.
“You get what you put into this game," Ferguson said. "I would like to thank my family, the fans and the organizations that I have been a part of for their continued support throughout my career, it’s been an absolute blessing to play this long.
"I have built a lot of relationships, you develop an extended family playing this game; I would like to thank that extended family, the teammates, the coaches, the support staffs that have all played a part of a great ride.”
Added Parcells, the Dolphins' executive vice president of football operations: Jason was a key contributor on three different teams for many years at one of the NFL’s toughest jobs. I am grateful and I will miss him.”
Ferguson was a former Jets seventh-round pick from Georgia.
He recorded 569 career tackles, 21 1/2 sacks, 12 pass deflections, six forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
"I want to wish Jason well in his retirement,” Dolphins coach Tony Sparano said. “He had a great career in the league and was professional in everything he did. I appreciate all he did for the Dolphins in his two years in Miami, and his leadership will be missed."
Now, Dolphins defensive lineman Paul Soliai has released a statement through his agent, David Canter:
"I learned earlier today that my good friend and mentor Jason Ferguson has decided to retire," Soliai said. "While I am still in shock that he will not be sitting next to meet in team meetings and practicing with us when training camp opens in two weeks I wish Jason the best of luck in this next phase of his life. I am honored to be able to call Jason a friend and mentor not only on the field but off of it. He has been like a big brother to me and has taught me how to be a professional and become a better man. He will be tremendously missed this coming season."
source: http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Miami-Dolphins-nose-guard-Jason-Ferguson-retires.html
author: Aaron Wilson
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