LeSean McCoy to retire with Eagles Friday, honored Sunday

Running back LeSean McCoy is joining the Philadelphia Eagles one more time to officially retire from the NFL on Friday, the team announced.

McCoy spent the first six years of his NFL career with the franchise after being selected in the second round of the 2009 draft out of Pittsburgh.

“I still have that green inside my heart,” McCoy wrote in a statement. “There are times when I’d see the Eagles on TV, and it just felt weird not wearing that uniform. I instantly think back to all of those big games and the roar of the fans; I’ve just always seen myself as an Eagle. It’s only right to come back home and retire an Eagle.”

McCoy re-wrote the record books during his time in Philadelphia, holding an Eagles franchise record with 6,792 rushing yards. He also ranks third in rushing touchdowns (44) and yards per carry (4.7).

The Harrisburg, PA native received first-team All-Pro honors twice, headlined by a mammoth 2013 season in which he set franchise records in rushing yards (1,607) and rushing touchdowns (17).

“LeSean possessed a unique combination of speed, elusiveness, and an exceptional playmaking ability that made him one of the most dynamic players in the league and one of the most productive players in the history of our franchise,” Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie said. “LeSean carried himself with a rare blend of confidence and youthful enthusiasm, but he also was driven by a desire to be one of the all-time greats at the running back position, and that’s what made him such an exciting player to be around and watch every week.”

McCoy will be honored on-field during the Eagles’ Week 4 meeting with the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday afternoon at Lincoln Financial Field.

“He provided so many memorable plays and performances over the course of his career,” Lurie added. “We are honored to share in this special day with LeSean and look forward to recognizing him as the Eagles Legend of the Game on Sunday.”