The 36-year-old Harrison announced that he is retiring after 15 seasons (the last six with the Patriots) to pursue a broadcast career as part of NBC Sports' NFL coverage.
Holding a conference call in which he officially announced his retirement, he opened with a joke: "Today is a very exciting day for me. Contrary to what you guys have reported, I just got off the phone with Coach Belichick and I'm very excited about getting acclimated with my teammates and getting back out on the field. Knee feels great. He told me that I don't really have to report until September 1. So I'm very excited about that."
There was silence on the conference call, before Harrison said "I'm just pulling your leg."
The move to leave the NFL was expected. Harrison was part of NBC's coverage of Super Bowl XLIII in February and also did work for the NFL Network during the playoffs. His contract with the Patriots expired after the 2008 season.
Harrison joined the Patriots in 2003 and won a pair of Super Bowl rings. A two-time Pro Bowler, he is the only player in NFL history with more than 30 sacks (30.5) and 30 interceptions (34).
“Rodney Harrison is one of the best players I have ever coached. In the biggest games, in any situation and on a weekly basis, his production was phenomenal. Rodney is the best practice player I have seen in 35 years in the NFL, which is a testament to his exceptional passion for the game and his desire to sustain and improve his level of play. Regardless of his status on the team and in the league, Rodney’s approach to preparation spoke volumes about his devotion to the team and his ability to raise every player’s game. Rodney embodies all the attributes coaches seek and appreciate – toughness, competitiveness, leadership, selflessness, hard work, intensity, professionalism – and coming from Rodney, they are contagious. I am honored to have coached Rodney Harrison and am grateful for his significant impact on my career and the success of the New England Patriots.” -- Coach Bill Belichick
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