Clinton Portis officially retires to become 'soccer dad'

ASHBURN, Va. (AP) -- There was no "Southeast Jerome" or "Bro Sweets." Clinton Portis has a new title for himself: "soccer dad."

Portis formally announced his retirement Thursday, frequently shedding tears as he spoke uninterrupted for some 25 minutes about his life and nine-year NFL career with the Denver Broncos and Washington Redskins.

The 30-year-old Portis last played for the Redskins in 2010, and his announcement was timed to coincide with his induction into a list of the franchise's all-time greats.

He set Washington's single-season rushing record in 2005, the same year he wore costumes on a near-weekly basis during the team's playoff drive.
Portis said the costumes were "fun to do" and helped his teammates get through a special season.

Portis issued a thank you letter to his fans Wednesday,. It follows in its entirety :

I entered this city wide-eyed and excited. I was a 22-year old kid who didn’t know the storied history or the timeless legacy that is The Redskin Nation. What I did know was that I was called upon to deliver more than just touchdowns. I was brought here to work alongside a great group of teammates to uplift the spirits of an organization, a community, and the best fans in the world.

Today, I hang up my jersey and untie my cleats. I reflect on my time here as some of the best times I can remember and hope that it is as memorable for you as it is for me. I want to thank my teammates, my family, and my fans for all the love and support and for allowing me to grow from a boy into a man in a city that I will forever love.

A special thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Snyder for everything they have done for me and my family, Coach Shannahan for giving me the chance of a lifetime, and Coach Gibbs for making me a man. LOVE YOU ALL!


(cnnsi.com)