Troy Aikman, the Dallas Cowboys' three-time winning Super Bowl quarterback, has retired from American Football following his on-going battle with concussion and back problems. The 34-year-old, who spent a lengthy 12 seasons with the Texas club, announced his decision at an emotional press conference, and admitted: "You watch Michael Irvin, Jay Novacek, Daryl Johnston, you watch it and you think your time (to retire) will never come. My time has come."
Aikman was the cornerstone of the lethal offence of running back Emmitt Smith and wide receiver Irvin that created nightmares for opponents, a trio that was dubbed 'The Triplets,' within the game. Aikman, who fought back tears during his press conference, was released by Dallas on March 7, a day before the team was contractually bound to pay him a seven million-dollar bonus and lengthen his agreement through the 2007 season.
The four-time Pro Bowler added: "Walking away is hard. I've been playing this game since I was seven years old. I know it's the right thing for me because of my health, the concussions and the back problems that I had. It took its toll. The competitor in me still wanted to play, but I just can't do it anymore." Dallas owner Jerry Jones paid tribute to the quarterback, insisting: "It'll hit us that number eight won't be on the field anymore. He is the cornerstone of the franchise and ours to be proud of forever." (PA)
Filed by Shane Murray
