Philadelphia Eagles’ owner Jeffrey Lurie: Brian Dawkins is the favourite player I have ever had
Philadelphia Eagles’ owner, Jeffrey Lurie, has said that safety, Brian Dawkins, who played 13 seasons of his 16-year career for Eagles, is the favourite player he has ever had.
Lurie’s remarks came following Dawkins retirement announcement from the National Football League (NFL) on Monday, April 23, 2012.
Dawkins joined Eagles back in 1996 and parted ways with the franchise after the 2008 season. He played three seasons with Denver Broncos before announcing the retirement.
While recalling the time when Dawkins was drafted, Lurie admitted that Eagles were struggling to perform well and despite making repeated attempts to win the Super Bowl title, they failed.
Even in that phase of the development of this franchise, Lurie said, Dawkins was giving his hundred percent to bring success to the team.
The owner said of Dawkins:
"He set the example for the whole building of the franchise. There were other key elements, us getting a franchise quarterback, but the whole tone was set by Brian Dawkins. That's why, for me, he's really one of my favourite players in the history of the
game and for my ownership of the team, my favourite player I've ever had."
During his stay in Philadelphia, Dawkins was equally popular off the field as he was on it. The fans loved him for his consistency and emotional approach towards the sport.
Dawkins’ praise has not only been sung by the franchise owner; in fact, his former teammates have also appreciated the player for his services to the franchise and the sport.
After the retirement announcement, which the player made via his Twitter account, Eagles’ cornerback, Asante Samuel, tweeted:
“You have done great on and of the (field). True definition of a warrior and passionate player. God Bless! #halloffamer"
Former Eagles’ linebacker, Ike Reese, also thanked Dawkins for his services. He tweeted:
“thank you bro for being an example(pro,father,bro,husband) for all of us who were blessed to know you!"
Not only that, even the present NFL commissioner, Roger Goodell, appreciated the player and services and praised Dawkins career achievement in his tweet.
Dawkins is expected to come to Philadelphia and meet his former team on Saturday.
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