Michael Strahan Retires After 15 Seasons

[Dead Silence]

The seven-time Pro Bowl defensive end has decided to retire after a 15-year NFL career with the New York Giants that was capped by a Super Bowl title four months ago.

The 36-year-old Strahan, who was the NFL's active leader in sacks, informed the front office in the morning without telling his coaches and teammates.

"I'm just finding out about it; let me get organized," coach Tom Coughlin said after a team workout.
Strahan is walking away from a $4 million salary for the final year of his contract. He has long said he wants a job in television.

Tony Agnone, Strahan's agent, said the Giants offered Strahan more money to play another season, but that was never the key issue. He noted that winning the championship might have been most important for Strahan.

"I really believe that was it," Agnone told The Associated Press. "He really felt he has a chance to repeat this year, so it was tough to walk away."

Stats:
15 seasons; 7 Pro Bowl selections (1998-2000, 2002-04, 2006); 6 All Pro selections (1997, 1998, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005)

» 2001 NFL Defensive Player of the Year

» Super Bowl Champion (XLII)

» Originally a second round (40th overall) draft pick by the Giants in 1993

» Has 141.5 career sacks, placing him fifth on the NFL's career list

» Set NFL season record with 22.5 sacks in 2001

» Finished the 2007 season with 57 tackles (46 solo), 19 QB hits, two passes defensed, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and 9.0 sacks for 65 yards

» Had 3 tackles, 1 sack and 2 QB hits in Super Bowl XLII

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