Arizona Cardinals' LB Bertrand Berry Retires After 12 Seasons

After twelve seasons in the NFL and six of them with the Arizona Cardinals, linebacker Bertrand Berry decided to call it a career on Thursday.

Berry was a question mark heading into this past season, but was extended to a one year contract. After notching six sacks in a situational role, he made 2009 his final season. The news was announced on his radio show, "Big Red Rage" Thursday evening.

"I've been playing football since I was 9 years old, 25 years, and with it coming to an end there is a little bit of sadness but at the same time it means there is a new beginning," Berry said. "It's been a great ride."
"It's time," Berry said. "I've given a lot of my life to the game, I have played the game at a high level and I have tried to represent myself the best I could. I think I have played the game the right way, I think I have respected the game and I think I left the game a little better than when I came in."
"I am proud of my career and what I accomplished. At this point, there isn't much more I can do. I was able to live out my dream for 13 years and I have no regrets."

Berry was signed as a free agent in 2004 after enjoying success in Denver. In his first year he registered 14.5 sacks for the third most in team history. The achievement earned him his first and only trip to the Pro Bowl.

Even in his mid 30s Berry was an effective pass rusher. He was second on the team in 2009 with six sacks after seeing limited playing time. The absence left by Berry highlights linebacker as the primary need this offseason if it hasn't already.

Berry finished his career with 40 sacks for the Cardinals, landing him 6th all-time in franchise history. Thanks for being one of the key pieces in turning around the franchise Bertrand.