Former linebacker A.J. Hawk, who spent nine seasons in Green Bay, has made the decision to retire as a Packer, General Manager Ted Thompson announced Tuesday.
Hawk was drafted No. 5 overall in the 2006 NFL Draft out of Ohio State. He ranks first in team history since 1975 with 1,118 career tackles. He led the team in tackles five times during his nine-year career (2006-14).
“The first thing that needs to be said about A.J. Hawk is that he is a good man,” Thompson said. “He was a terrific teammate and a true professional during his career, and we were lucky to have him. A.J. will always be a Packer. We wish the best to him and the entire Hawk family, and thank them for all that they gave to the team and the city of Green Bay.”
The linebacker played in 142 regular season games in Green Bay, logging 19 sacks, nine interceptions, and five fumble recoveries in addition to his many tackles. He even earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2010.
“We were fortunate to make A.J. my first pick as head coach in 2006, and he spent the next nine years giving everything he had to the Green Bay community and the Packers,” Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. “His leadership and toughness were instrumental in all of our success, and we thank him for all that he did for the organization and the community. We wish A.J., Laura and the rest of the Hawk family all the best, and I am confident that whatever the future holds, he will be successful.”
After leaving Green Bay after the 2013-14 season, Hawk spent one season in Cincinnati with the Bengals. He also appeared in one game for the Atlanta Falcons last season.
Be sure and watch TODAY'S TMJ4 on Roku! We are the only station in Milwaukee to provide the latest news, weather and sports on the device. Search for us on Roku today!
