Chris Samuels retires

Washington Redskins great Chris Samuels, a star and stalwart at left tackle since being drafted out of Auburn with the 3rd overall pick in 2000, announced his retirement today at Redskins Park. Samuels played 10 years in Washington, going to 6 Pro Bowls.

Owner Dan Snyder opened the ceremony with a few remarks before Samuels took the podium, saying:  "Thank you Mr. Snyder. Not only have you been a great boss, you’ve been a great friend."

Samuels thanked the many coaches who helped his career, including Redskins Norv Turner, Joe Gibbs and Joe Bugel. He also mentioned OG Randy Thomas, TB Ladell Betts and other players who have been good friends through the years.

Samuels also thanked the Redskins support staff and members of the media for treating him well and with respect over the years. Specifically, he mentioned Comcast and Channel 4 for downplaying the news of his impending retirement so he could announce it on his own.

Finally, Samuels thanked Redskins fans for their support for himself and the team.

Samuels made it clear he would have returned for an 11th season in Washington had it not been for the neck/spinal injury that has made it too dangerous for him to continue playing professional football. The big left tackle said doctors predicted he could not play more than 6 or 7 years of football due to his narrow spine, but he was proud of lasting a full decade.

Samuels mentioned he would like to coach football now that his playing days are over. He intends to continue living in the Washington, D.C. area and revealed that Coach Mike Shanahan offered him the chance to stick around Redskins Park and help out the current offensive linemen. Samuels believes his knowledge of the game and ability to relate to current players will make him a good football coach.

During questions, Samuels said he knew some time ago that he would have to retire and that he had lived with this possibility since high school, when he first injured his neck/spine.

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http://www.dcprosportsreport.com/articles/washington-redskins/chris-samuels-retires.html