Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner announced his retirement at a live press conference today at 3:00 pm PST at the team’s training center.
Warner, 39, was originally signed by the Green Bay Packers in 1994, and went on to play for the St. Louis Rams and the New York Giants before signing a 1-year $4 million contract with the Cardinals in 2005.
In 2006, he signed a new $18 million 3-year deal with the Cardinals, and led the franchise to their first Super Bowl in 2008.
Warner expressed his desire to return to the Cardinals for the 2009 season, and after negotiations, he re-signed to a two-year deal worth $23 million. In March of 2009, he underwent hip surgery, and in November, he he suffered a concussion during a game with the St. Louis Rams.
On January 16, 2010, he was injured in the first half of the game against the New Orleans Saints in the post season Division Championship round. He returned for the second half, but yielded to understudy Matt Leinart midway through the fourth quarter.
Warner, a five time Pro Bowler and 2 time AP MVP, also holds the record for the most yards thrown in the Super Bowl. He announced his retirement from his career in the NFL on January 29, 2010, saying he is looking forward to finally being a true father to his seven kids, and he wants to spend time with his wife. (See family photos) He spoke largely on the impact and influence of his family, former players, and God.
Watch Kurt Warner retirement video below: