Philadelphia Eagles star offensive lineman Brandon Brooks has announced his retirement from the NFL on Wednesday. The 32-year-old, three-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl LII champion also discussed his plans for life after football, telling reporters he intends to apply to business school at Penn.

Brooks said in his opening statement:  “How do you say goodbye to something you’ve known your whole life?”  “Yes, after 10 years in this game, it’s true. I am retiring.”  Brooks played college football at Miami (Ohio) and was selected in the third round of the 2012 NFL draft by the Texans. He signed a five-year deal with Philadelphia in ’16 and has been there ever since.  Said Brooks: “Year-round, I’m Philly. This is home for me. This will always be home for me.”

Injuries affected Brooks over the past two seasons, as he was only able to appear in two games. In June of 2020, Brooks tore his Achilles and was forced to miss that entire season. He then suffered a pectoral strain in Week 2 of this past season, and was placed on injured reserve in late September.

Brooks has also been open about his battles with anxiety and addressed mental health in the past. Eagles CEO Jeffrey Lurie wrote in a farewell statement that Brooks had a huge impact on the team, and also an impact on those dealing with anxiety:  “Beyond his on-field accomplishments, I am most proud of the way Brandon represents our organization with exemplary class. He is one of the most thoughtful and bravest athletes I have ever been around. Brandon’s willingness to openly discuss his own struggles with anxiety has served as an inspiration to so many and helped open the door for future conversations among athletes and role models everywhere.”

Editorial credit: dean bertoncelj / Shutterstock.com