Burnett Considered Retiring

Kevin Burnett is in Dallas getting his knee scoped out and will be shelved for a few weeks with the hopes of returning by the season opener against the Cleveland Browns. According to Eatman at DC.com, Burnett said retirement crossed his mind after this latest setback.

Since Burnett joined the Cowboys in 2005 as a second-round pick, he has undergone six surgeries, with Friday’s procedure to be his seventh. And that’s not counting reconstructive surgery he had on his left knee during his collegiate career at Tennessee.

But Burnett said he’s long past being upset about the injuries, which mostly have occurred in the off-season, considering he’s missed just three games in his three seasons.

“I can’t change it. There’s no reason to get mad or frustrated anymore,” Burnett said. “I’ve had my days of being mad and frustrated. You can’t get mad. (Surgery) still has to be done either way, whether you’re playing football or you’re not.

“Right now, I’m care-free because it could’ve been worse. I could’ve been done.”

And by “done,” Burnett said retirement has at least crossed his mind. Not because he doesn’t feel he can contribute, but with the surgeries starting to add up, the linebacker said it has crossed his mind.(DC.com)

Burnett is in a contract year, and you can bet the Cowboys won’t be re-signing Burnett, he’s been a good back up, but he’s never been 100%, and the knee surgeries are a concern on several fronts. Start watching LBs for next year’s draft, you can never have enough LBs in the 3-4. I think we’re set with Ware and Spencer for years to come. Bradie James signed an extension in 2006 which ends in 2011, so he’ll be there. Zach Thomas has a 1yr deal, but he’s playing on borrowed time, his concussions are a concern, so one more could seal the deal on retirement. I do see him doing some really good things for us this year, so anything is possible. Other than that, we have former 1st rounder in Carpenter. Can he fill the void this year or next year? These are questions that will be addressed during this season and into the 2009 draft. I expect more LBs to be added via the draft next year, it just makes sense.