Brian Dawkins: An Eagle Forever
Former Philadelphia Eagles safety Brian Dawkins had his jersey retired during a half-time ceremony on Sept. 30th.
On Sept. 30 former Philadelphia Eagles safety Brian Dawkins had his jersey retired by the team during a half-time ceremony.
The Philadelphia Eagles hosted the New York Giants for a Sunday night showdown on September 30, defeating the Giants 19-17. It was a defensive win putting the Eagles in first place in the NFC East Division.
The win for the Eagles wasn’t the only thing that occurred on the field that night. During the halftime presentation, The Philadelphia Eagles retired former safety Brian Dawkins jersey number and revealed a new banner in the stadium dedicated to him. Dawkins signed a one-day contract with the Eagles back in April so he could officially retire with the team.
Dawkins played 16 years in the NFL at safety, but he was much more than that. Dawkins was known for his aggression and passion for the game and was an inspirational leader amongst his teammates and fans. He was a legend to some, and a hero to most.
Dawkins was celebrated last Sunday night at Lincoln Financial Field by a light show displaying his jersey number and last name throughout the stadium. He then gave a speech thanking everybody who helped him throughout his career. He named everybody including the late Philadelphia Eagles Defensive Coordinator Jim Johnson. Dawkins topped off the ceremony by singing the “Eagles Fight Song” with the fans one last time.
Being able to witness Dawkins playing career since I was young has been a wonderful experience. I was fortunate enough to be in the stands myself for the ceremony, I can honestly say that I felt honored to be a part of something that will forever be a part of NFL history..
Dawkins was drafted by the Eagles in the second round of the 1996 NFL Draft out of Clemson University. He then went on to play for the Eagles for 13 consecutive years, until he was released and then picked up by the Denver Broncos in 2009.He would go on to play with the Broncos for 3 seasons.
Dawkins ended his career with a total of 1131 tackles, 33 forced fumbles, 37 interceptions, and six Pro-Bowl appearances.
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