ASHBURN, Virginia -- The Washington Redskins' seven-time Pro Bowl cornerback Darrell Green officially announced his retirement on Tuesday, stating that the 2001 season would be his final one in the NFL.
"This is not a sad time and I don't want to see any tears," Green said. "I was blessed to have a long career here and I'm still a part of a vibrant effort to win a championship this season."
The 41-year-old Green has spent his entire 18-year career with the Redskins and holds club records for games played with 263 and interceptions with 53, including six for touchdowns.
The oldest cornerback to start an NFL game, Green remains one of the league's fastest players.
But after starting 119 straight games for the Redskins, Green was demoted to nickel back last season after Washington signed Deion Sanders.
This training camp has been a humbling experience for Green, who has been subjected to technique tips on how to play the position from new Redskins coach Marty Schottenheimer and may again serve as nickel back despite the departure of Sanders.
Schottenheimer appears to be favoring rookie Fred Smoot and Donovan Greer over Green for a starting spot opposite Pro Bowler Champ Bailey.
The Redskins begin the regular season Sunday at San Diego.
A first-round pick out of Texas A&I in 1983, Green has served as a valuable mentor and role model for Bailey.
On Tuesday, he thanked former Redskins general manager Bobby Beathard for drafting him.
"I thank Bobby Beathard for having the courage to bring me in," Green said.
Along with his exploits on the field, Green is the most popular player with the fans and received the NFL's Man of the Year award in 1996.
He founded the Darrell Green Youth Life Foundation, which provides financial and moral support to Washington, D.C. youth.
"There are times in our life where we can affect change and I wanted to serve as a model to affect change," Green said.
Green's seven Pro Bowl honors is tied with Ken Houston for most by a Redskin behind only Chris Hanburger (9) and Charley Taylor (8).
