Eagles To Honor Westbrook In Week 16

Brian Westbrook will retire an Eagle and be honored during halftime of the team’s Week 16 home game against the Redskins.

“I will always remember Brian for the electrifying, game-changing plays he made during his great career in Philadelphia,” said Eagles chairman/CEO Jeffrey Lurie in a statement. “He was one of those players you knew could score from anywhere on the field and one of the most exciting players I have ever watched. He was a great runner, receiver and returner and was certainly a fan favorite. We are thrilled to have him retire as an Eagle and we look forward to honoring him at Lincoln Financial Field on December 23 against the Redskins in what should be a very exciting atmosphere.”

The Eagles drafted Westbrook in the third round of the 2002 draft, and he spent eight years in Philadelphia before finishing his career with the 49ers in 2010. He totaled 6,335 rushing yards and averaged 4.6 yards per carry. Westbrook also added 442 catches for 3,940 yards and 73 total touchdowns.

Westbrook had several great moments with the Birds, but perhaps the most memorable is the 84-yard punt return that he took to the house against the Giants back in 2003 with the Eagles trailing 10-7 and 1:34 left on the clock (video embedded below). The Eagles started that season 2-3, but Westbrook’s game-winner launched a nine-game winning streak.

Westbrook will address the media during an 11:30 a.m. press conference Wednesday at the Novacare Complex.

Follow Sheil Kapadia on Twitter and e-mail him at skapadia@phillymag.com.