FanPost

A Farewell to Alex Brown

Yesterday, we all received the news that former longtime Bears vet DE Alex Brown had signed a one day contract with the Chicago Bears, with him retiring today before kickoff of the Bears' pre-season debut vs. the Denver Broncos. Before we all witness the beginning of a new era in Chicago, we get to witness the end of another era, an end to the great and respectable career of Alex Brown. Let's take a little time to commemorate his career and time with the Bears.


Having a rather stellar college career with the Florida Gators (n< GATOR CHOMP) he was selected in the 4th round of the 2002 draft by the Chicago Bears, as he was brought in with hopes of bringing in a consistent force at one of the 4-3 End positions. What he turned out to be, was far more than that. From every game since his 2nd game of his rookie season, he appeared in 127 straight contests for the Bears, and he started all 16 games for the Bears at DE for 6 of his 8 seasons in Chicago. The only 2 seasons he wasn't a starter in game one, 2002 (rookie season) and the 2007 season (Mark Anderson Disaster). Otherwise, #96 was present in every game the Bears played. He was never the flashiest player, as he never recorded double digit sacks in any point of his career, but he was perhaps the most consistent player on the DL, being a player who excelled against the run while being an effective pass rusher. His career with the Bears (2002-2009) featured a player who always showed up, and gave it his all. Now working at Coyote Logistics in Chicago, he's set to end his NFL career right, as a proud member of the Chicago Bears. A quick look at his accomplishments:

(Does not include stats recorded with Saints)

127 career appearances

373 career tackles

43 1/2 career sacks (4th most in Bears Franchise history)

5 career ints (2nd most by Bears DL, only behind Richard Dent)

Now, as we all get ready to witness a brand new age of a Bears team set up for serious contention for the Super Bowl, let us all take a moment to remember one of the key leaders of the last squad to make a Super Bowl appearance. As, above all, if Alex Brown has shown us anything besides commitment, determination, and honor, it's leadership. We're gonna miss you Alex Brown. Bear Down, Alex Brown, Bear Down.

This Fanpost was written by a Windy City Gridiron member and does not necessarily reflect the ideas or opinions of its staff or community.