Matt Hasselbeck retires, will replace Mike Ditka on ESPN
When the 2015 season began, there were three players still on NFL rosters who were drafted in 1998: Oakland Raiders’ defensive back Charles Woodson, Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning and Indianapolis Colts QB Matt Hasselbeck.
In December, Woodson announced his intention to retire. On Monday, Manning did the same. And on Wednesday, Hasselbeck became the final member of the Class of ’98 to walk away from the game.
Hasselbeck had expressed a desire to play a 19th season in 2016, but was released by the Colts on Feb. 29; he had served as Andrew Luck’s backup and mentor for the last three years, and made eight starts last season, going 5-3.
Instead, the Massachusetts native – his father, Don, played tight end for the Patriots – has signed with ESPN.
In a release, ESPN announced Hasselbeck will be part of “Sunday NFL Countdown” and will go on the road for “Monday Night Countdown” as well. The Big Lead reported Tuesday night that Hasselbeck will replace the sometimes-controversial Mike Ditka on the Sunday show, though Ditka will remain with ESPN. Woodson has also signed on to be part of both programs.
“As a kid, playing in the NFL was always my dream and it turned out to be way more fun than I could’ve ever imagined,” Hasselbeck said in the ESPN statement. “Throughout 18 incredible seasons, I had the chance to forge many relationships with teammates, coaches and staff that I will cherish forever. Those relationships made my playing career all the more memorable. With the support of my family, we’ve made the decision to embark on the next chapter. I’m extremely thankful for the opportunity to have represented the NFL and so many great teams.
“The exceptional opportunity presented to me by ESPN accelerated my decision to retire from playing football. I’m excited for the chance to give everything I have to this new endeavor and share the knowledge I have with our viewers.”
Hasselbeck’s younger brother, Tim, also works for ESPN.
A sixth-round pick of the Green Bay Packers, Hasselbeck spent his rookie season on the team’s practice squad before earning a spot on the 53-man roster in 1999, serving as Brett Favre’s backup. He was traded to the Seattle Seahawks in 2001 and was their starter for the next 10 years, leading the team to six playoff berths and a spot in Super Bowl XL. Hasselbeck was also a three-time Pro Bowler during his time with Seattle.
Hasselbeck finished his career with two years as a member of the Tennessee Titans and the three seasons in Indianapolis.
