Jason Ferguson Calls it a Career

Some breaking and shocking news just hit the airwaves. Dolphins nose tackle Jason Ferguson announced his retirement after 13 seasons in the following statement:

 “You get what you put into this game. I would like to thank my family, the fans and the organizations that I have been a part of for their continued support throughout my career, it’s been an absolute blessing to play this long. I have built a lot of relationships, you develop an extended family playing this game; I would like to thank that extended family, the teammates, the coaches, the support staffs that have all played a part of a great ride.”

Many expected Ferguson to retire after he was suspended for the first eight games of the season for violating the league’s substance abuse policy, but he re-signed with the Dolphins anyway. My guess is, knowing he was already going to miss half the season and that he probably wouldn’t return as the starter when he was eligible if Randy Starks transitioned to nose smoothly, probably made the sound of the grind that will come with training camp opening in a couple weeks not worth it.

Obviously, this hurts the Dolphins insurance at the position, with Starks being unproven at the nose and Paul Soliai struggling last season, but the only way this actually hurts their 2010 season, is if Starks does indeed struggle or is injured. So, let’s just hope this regime knows what they are doing with this gamble of a move.

Let’s also wish Ferguson a happy and healthy life after football, and extend a big thank you for the two years he put in for the Dolphins. There’s no question, he played a huge role in helping the Dolphins transition to the 3-4 defense so effortlessly in the 08′ season.