The quarterback who led the Philadelphia Eagles to 100 victories over an 11-year period announced his retirement from the NFL, and will have his No 5 retired by the club during half time of a game in September.
Achievements McNabb set Eagles records for passing yards (32,783) and passing touchdowns (216), and took them to the play-offs eight times in 11 years, reaching the Super Bowl after the 2005 season. He appeared in the Pro Bowl game six times.
Deep feelings "Special day," he said. "I'm not one for emotion, but it's a tough one." He added: "It's hard to put into words how I truly feel … I appreciate everything … I had the opportunity to play with some great players during my time here."
Owner's tribute "His unique ability to make plays through the air and with his legs made him one of the most dynamic players this city has ever seen," Jeffrey Lurie said. "Donovan was the face and the focal point of so many of our great Eagles teams. There's never been anyone tougher. Donovan was somebody a lot of us worked with for thousands of days, an all-time great person. I can't tell you how important that is for a sports franchise. Impeccable character."
Ending as Eagle McNabb, 36, played for Washington in 2010 and for Minnesota in 2011, but he will retire as an Eagle. "I remember what things were like before Donovan got here," said former teammate Brian Dawkins. "And how when he got here, how quickly this thing went on the upswing."
His greatest regret McNabb was unable to lead the Eagles to their first NFL championship since 1960. In his one Super Bowl appearance, the Eagles lost 24-21 to New England. "I apologise to the fans because that was my goal," he said. "I feel like I let them down."
