Donovan McNabb, one of the greatest players in Philadelphia Eagles history, is set to retire as one today at 10:00 a.m., according to reports.
McNabb is Philadelphia's career leader in games started at quarterback (148), overall record (92-49-1), passing yards (32,873) and passing touchdowns (216). With McNabb under center, the Eagles experienced significant success that went at times unappreciated because of the consistency.
McNabb had his ups and downs with the Philadelphia fans, even getting booed vociferously on draft day after being selected ahead of Texas Longhorns running back Ricky Williams, but stuck it through and made good things happen with the Birds.
He is retiring with Philly as a show of thanks to his supporters. "To me, it's an appreciation for the people who truly respected what I did. I've always lived by the motto that you can't please everyone. So, for me, if I get booed, it wouldn't be anything new. If they cheer, that would be great. Obviously I'll be out there with my family and the teammates I played with. If there are any boos, I will smile," McNabb said as a nod to his draft day experience.
He likely will get cheers, though, as he did on Alumni Day at practice. He and former safety Brian Dawkins were introduced and got a nice hand from the assembled crowd. "The reception was great," McNabb said. "It was awesome. I enjoyed being back."
McNabb was an Eagle for 11 seasons before latching on with the Washington Redskins in 2010 and the Minnesota Vikings in 2011. He was ineffective in both of those seasons and has not played since.
In his time the Eagles ran roughshod over the NFC East, romping to five NFC titles but just one Super Bowl appearance. With Terrell Owens as his top target McNabb made the title game but famously tired out down the stretch, allowing Tom Brady and the New England Patriots to get the win.
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