Champ Bailey's statement on his retirement

Courtesy the Denver Broncos, here is Champ Bailey's statement announcing his retirement and singing the orange and blue praises. More statement from John Elway, John Fox, Mike Shanahan, Peyton Manning and more to come.

"Every professional athlete knows and understands that at some point his career will end and it will be time to move on to another phase in life. For me, that time is now.

"I have been truly blessed. I have been able to play this NFL game I love for 15 seasons and yet, it seems like only yesterday that my dreams came true when I received the call from Charley Casserly letting me know the Redskins had made me their first pick in the 1999 draft. I thank them for that.

"Then in 2004, Mr. Bowlen, Mike Shanahan and Ted Sundquist gave me the opportunity to come to Denver and be a Bronco. I had the privilege of playing in front of the best fans in the NFL.

"John Elway then brought Peyton Manning here, and I had the chance to play with one of the greatest quarterbacks ever and make it to the Super Bowl. I could not have played for a better organization or had better teammates and coaches. I thank them all.

"I have tried to conduct myself in a manner that would be a credit to my family, my team and my organization. I thank them all for their love and support.

"After considering offers to play for other teams this season, I have decided that now is the right time to pursue a new career path available to me. It's a decision made after great thought and, for this reason, I announce my decision to retire. I thank you all for your support. 

"God bless and Go Broncos!"