Darren Sproles to retire following 2019 season

The Philadelphia Eagles announced Saturday that running back Darren Sproles will retire following the 2019 season.

"To Eagles fans everywhere, I want to thank you for the way you supported me every single day," Sproles said in a statement. "I could feel it. You made my time here special."

"I'm proud that I was able to prove my doubters wrong," he continued. "They told me that I wouldn't make it past a year in the NFL. Fifteen years later, I'm fifth all time in NFL history in career all-purpose yards ... to be part of such an outstanding group is an incredible honor. But it also goes to show that no matter what people say about you, you can still achieve great things if you believe in yourself and put in the work."

Sproles' 19,696 all-purpose yards rank fifth in league history behind Jerry Rice, Brian Mitchell, Walter Payton, and Emmitt Smith.

The 36-year-old was not only a dynamic offensive weapon during his 15-year career, but he doubled as a productive return specialist. He accumulated 23 touchdowns on the ground, 32 as a receiver, seven on punt returns, and two on kick returns.

Sproles was drafted in the fourth round by the then-San Diego Chargers in 2005. After six seasons with the Chargers, he played three years with the New Orleans Saints and six in Philadelphia.

He was selected to three Pro Bowls and two All-Pro teams, and he captured a Super Bowl with the Eagles two seasons ago.

The veteran is currently on injured reserve with a torn hip flexor.

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