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Fans of the New York Giants can breath a sigh of relief on Friday as Dallas Cowboys tight end, and long time Giants killer, Jason Witten has finally decided to call it a career.
#Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said he’s met with TE Jason Witten several times, including today. Jones said Witten will take a few days before making a final decision — tho I’m told that decision has been made and he’s going to TV.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 27, 2018
The 35 year old, 15-year veteran was drafted by the Cowboys in the third round of the 2003 draft and has been a thorn in the side of the Giants ever since.
But while the common joke is that the Giants’ often neglected linebacking corps has padded his stats, it is undeniable that Witten will retire as one of the greatest tight ends of all time, having been a four-time All-Pro and having gone to 11 Pro Bowls. He is behind only Jerry Rice, Larry Fitzgerald, and Tony Gonzalez in terms of total passes caught over his career.
Indications are that Witten will be replacing Jon Gruden on the announce team for Monday Night Football, following in the footsteps of his long-time quarterback, Tony Romo.
Witten’s decision also, apparently, blind-sided the Cowboys themselves, who have not prepared for his retirement.
Cowboys were not prepared for Jason Witten to retire. The irony is he blindsided them late in process like they did Dez Bryant. What will make you laugh will make you cry. He did what was best for him in terms of timing. It ain't personal its business.
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) April 27, 2018
After releasing Dez Bryant, Dallas apparently has a serious need for pass catchers. They could be forced to select a player like North Dakota State’s Dallas Goedert or Penn State’s Mike Gesicki.
We will just have to see what impact Witten’s decision has on the Cowboys’ draft plans.