NFL quarterback Matthew Hasselbeck announced his retirement from the NFL today, as Allie Stoneberg of ESPN writes. The three-time Pro Bowler will now join up with ESPN as an analyst. 
“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,” said Hasselbeck. “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.”
Even during his age-40 season, Hasselbeck played pretty well in relief of the injured Andrew Luck — he started eight games and posted a 5-3 record, completed 61% of his passes for 1,690 yards, and threw nine touchdowns against five interceptions.
Hasselbeck said recently that he planned to return for an 18th NFL season, and Colts head coach Chuck Pagano stated that the club “would love” to have him back. Evidently that thinking changed, however, as the Colts informed the QB late last month that they would not re-sign him.
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