After a fantastic NFL season, we are left with a lot of heart break. Just like any other year, players who see that their time in the game is up have walked away and announced their retirement, but this time it’s different. The players who have announced this year will leave a hole in the game forever. The most notable retirees are Peyton Manning, Calvin Johnson, Marshawn Lynch, and Charles Woodson. These players changed the game and deserve a proper farewell from me.

Starting us off, farewell to one of the best wide receivers to ever play. Calvin Johnson, or as you’re best known as, Megatron. Thank you for the incredible catches, plays, and performances. Thank you for showing us that no ball is uncatchable. I have grown up watching you snag balls over DB’s and I can say that I am honored to watch a legend like you. You are leaving us in what is said to be your prime so I hope to see you make a comeback, but if you don’t, you will never be forgotten.

Next up is Marshawn Lynch, one of the most powerful RB’s in recent memory and always gave you a good laugh. Beastmode, I want to say thank you for every amazing run you ever had, I will never forget the play against the Saints in the first round of the playoffs. No one will ever forget your famous press conferences where you refused to say anything more than one word. Sadly you didn’t get to end your career on a good note as you had many injuries this season. Your career will live forever in the record books and the minds of us all.

Charles Woodson, a player so great that he is a debatable greatest of all time in his position. You will never be forgotten in NCAA history as you are the only defensive player to ever win the Heisman trophy. Your NFL career has been one of the best and I am honored to be able to see you play. All the clutch plays, the interceptions and the unforgettable plays. You never got the Super Bowl ring you deserved but you are still one of the best.

Lastly, I want to say a heartfelt goodbye to a top five QB of all time, the leader in passing yards, most career wins and most TDs in a career, the man known as the Sheriff, Peyton Manning. That’s right the player most of us grew up idolizing is hanging up his cleats. After winning Super Bowl 50, Peyton decided this was his last year. From a die-hard Pats fan and an avid Manning hater, I want to say goodbye from the bottom of my heart. You have set the bar for QBs. I do not see you has the best ever but you are top 5 and no one will take that away from you. Enjoy your retirement sheriff and know you will never ever be forgotten.

Thank you to all of these amazing players for leaving us with memories I will be telling my kids about one day. Enjoy your retirement fellas and I hope to see you back in the game in any way possible soon.