Ravens' Matt Birk announces retirement
 |
| Matt Birk ended his career by winning Super Bowl XLVII with the Ravens. (USATSI) |
Baltimore Ravens center Matt Birk announced his retirement Friday morning at a Baltimore elementary school. Birk spent 15 seasons with the Ravens and Minnesota Vikings.
Birk met with students at Battle Grove Elementary School to dedicate a community reading center.
"I've enjoyed playing football," Birk said. "But as much as playing football I've enjoyed doing this [community service with kids]."
Birk went to six Pro Bowls in his career and won his first Super Bowl this season. He had two years left on a three-year, $8.525 million contract.
A father of six and a Harvard graduate, Birk was named Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2012, as recognition for his consistent play and dedication to the community.
When asked by a student why he was retiring, Birk responded: "I'm old. I've got six kids. ... It's time to do something else."
For more NFL news, rumors and analysis, follow @EyeOnNFL on Twitter, subscribe to our RSS Feed, watch Pro Football 360 daily at 3 p.m. ET and NFL newsletter. You can also follow Evan Hilbert @evanhilbert.
