Dallas Cowboys: DeMarcus Ware calls it a career, retires

Arguably, one of the greatest Dallas Cowboys defenders in franchise history, pass rusher DeMarcus Ware, has announced his retirement.

One of the greatest players ever to wear The Star as a member of the Dallas Cowboys has decided to finally call it a career. After spending twelve years in the NFL, defensive end/linebacker DeMarcus Ware has announced his retirement. And Ware used a Bible verse to do so.

"“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7, (KJV)"

A first round selection out of Troy back in 2005, Ware is currently the Cowboys All-Time sack leader recording 117.0 during his nine seasons in Dallas. He ranks eighth All-Time in the NFL with a career total of 138.5 sacks.

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During his 12-year career, Ware posted 654 total tackles, 25 pass defends, three interceptions and one defensive touchdown. As a member of America’s Team, DeMarcus was an iron man. During his nine years in Dallas, Ware missed a total of just three games. All of which occurred during his final season as a Cowboy.

Ware was a nine-time Pro Bowler, seven-time All Pro, twice led the NFL in sacks and was named the NFC’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2008. He was also named to the NFL’s 2000 All-Decade Team.

Many suspected the 34-year old would return to Dallas this season to finish his career where it started. But with budding opportunities beyond the football field to consider and his future quality of life also playing a factor, Ware has now decided to hang up his cleats.

In March of 2014, the Cowboys released Ware after he refused to take a pay cut to remain in Dallas. The very next day, the talented pass rusher signed with the Denver Broncos. And as a member of the Broncos, Ware was able to do something he never did in Dallas. He won a Super Bowl ring.

Next: Dallas Cowboys All-Time Best Defensive Players By Position

In my mind, DeMarcus Ware is unquestionable a first ballot Hall of Famer. Unfortunately, we’ll have to wait five years to see if the Pro Football Hall of Fame voters feel the same. The clock’s ticking…