The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have announced veteran defensive lineman Doug Brown has retired after an 11-year CFL career.



“The CFL and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers have become a big part of my life and it is always hard to walk away from something you love so much,” said the 37-year old Brown. “However, it is extra special to be able to leave on my own terms, in the uniform of the only team I have ever worn in this league. I will miss everyone I have crossed paths with over my career and will always hold a spot in my heart for the people of Winnipeg for the way they have always treated me.”



Doug Brown talked about the support he received from the fans of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.



Brown was acquired by the Blue Bombers in a trade with the Calgary Stampeders back in 2001 after being initially drafted by Calgary in the first round (5th overall) of the 1997 CFL Draft. He spent four years in the NFL, spending his first season on the Buffalo Bills’ practice roster, before enjoying a breakout season with the Washington Redskins playing in ten games and recording 21 defensive tackles. After sitting out the 2000 season due to injury, Brown made his way to Winnipeg where he would begin his illustrious CFL career.



In 11 seasons, Brown has played in 188 regular season games, been named a CFL All-Star seven times, a divisional All-Star eight times and was honoured as the CFL’s Most Outstanding Canadian in 2001. Brown leaves the game second on the Club’s all-time tackles list with 429 and is third on the Club’s all-time quarterback sack list with 52.



Blue Bombers head coach Paul LaPolice talked about Doug Brown's legacy with the Winnipeg Football Club.



“Having worked with him on two different occasions, I could say without a doubt there is no better pro than Doug Brown,” said Head Coach Paul LaPolice, who worked with Brown as an assistant coach with Winnipeg from 2002-2003, before becoming head coach in 2010. “He will be missed on the field for everything he was able to accomplish, but more importantly, he will be missed off the field for how he handled himself in the community throughout the province of Manitoba. He is a true ambassador to the CFL and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.”



“Doug represented this organization with absolute, consummate professionalism and was the definition of a leader both on and off the field. He had a tremendous career in every facet and we sincerely thank him for everything he has done for this organization,” said Vice-President and General Manager Joe Mack.