Ravens wide receiver Brandon Stokley plans to retire after season

Ravens veteran wide receiver Brandon Stokley intends to retire following this injury-plagued season, a team source said.

Stokley, 37, told The Denver Post on Thursday during an interview at his Colorado home that his 15th NFL season will be his final one.

Known for his toughness, reliable hands and crisp routes, Stokley was the consummate clutch slot receiver.

Stokley was placed on injured reserve on Dec. 10, ending his season due to a concussion suffered against the Minnesota Vikings when he was tackled by linebacker Chad Greenway. Stokley has a lengthy history of concussions. He also missed several games with a groin injury earlier this season.

"I'm glad I played this year because now I know I'm done," Stokley told The Denver Post, adding that he's still dealing with the effects of his latest concussion. "Had I not played this year I would have always felt I could have kept playing. I still know I can play but my body just can't go through it anymore."'

Stokley endured a difficult season this year with health issues, including a groin injury that sidelined him for seven games. Stokley was limited to 13 catches for 115 yards and no touchdowns in six games this season with the Ravens after signing a one-year, $1.005 million contract in August.

"Unfortunately, he's had a number of those in his career, so it could be problematic for us," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said of Stokley's concussion issue before he was placed on injured reserve.

Stokley caught a touchdown during the Ravens Super Bowl XXXV victory, opening their scoring with his scoring catch behind New York Giants cornerback Jason Sehorn.

Stokley finishes his NFL career with 397 receptions for 5,339 yards and 39 touchdowns, including a career-high 68 catches for 1,077 yards and 10 touchdowns during the 2004 season with Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts. He won a Super Bowl with the Colts in 2006.

Last season, Stokley reunited with Manning with the Denver Broncos and caught 45 passes for 544 yards and five touchdowns.

"I've seen it all, been there, done it," Stokley told The Baltimore Sun earlier this season. "For myself, I just try to get better and help this team out. That's what I've been trying to do. As hard as it is when you're hurt, it's very difficult, especially in my situation.

"The team has been great, the coaches have been great. They've been behind me. I really appreciate that."

awilson@baltsun.com

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