Vikings LB Chad Greenway Announces Retirement After 11 Seasons

by Pablo MenaMarch 7, 2017, 5:50 pmDaily Digest, News >

Chad Greenway’s 11-year NFL career is coming to an end.

Vikings LB Chad Greenway Announces Retirement

The Minnesota Vikings linebacker announced his retirement at a press conference at noon on Tuesday.

Greenway, 34, played his entire NFL career in Minnesota, ranking fourth in franchise history with 1,334 tackles, according to the team.

Over 156 total games, the defenseman compiled 18 regular-season sacks, 32 passes broken up and 11 interceptions.

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Greenway had already stated in February 2016 that he wanted to play one more year with the Vikings. He stayed true to his word, signing with the team in late March.

During Tuesday’s press conference, Greenway thanked Iowa’s program, which returned the appreciation:

“I had one scholarship offer. I made the most of it. Thank you, @HawkeyeFootball.” – @chadgreenway52

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) March 7, 2017

Congratulations @chadgreenway52 on an amazing career! We are honored to have you in the Hawkeye Family | #Farewell52 https://t.co/63CdctmtRp

— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) March 7, 2017

The 2006 first-round pick (No. 17) out of Iowa earned two Pro Bowl selections and was named Minnesota’s defensive MVP three times in his career. He was also named a second-team All-Pro in 2012.

Over the years I have learned so much for @chadgreenway52 . If you didn’t know, your are a role model in my life. Love you dude.#Farewell52 pic.twitter.com/d6SXptKltz

— Everson Griffen (@EversonGriffen) March 6, 2017

Greenway also did good deeds off the field. He created the Lead The Way Foundation, which enhances education and health opportunities for children and families in need. In 2007, Greenway was named the Vikings’ Ed Block Courage Award recipient after returning from a season-ending knee injury suffered during his rookie season.

ATLANTA, GA – NOVEMBER 29: Chad Greenway #52 of the Minnesota Vikings warms up prior to the game against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome on November 29, 2015 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)