ArmyBengal Posted July 13, 2009 Report Share Posted July 13, 2009 http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2009/07/13/ravens-wide-receiver-derrick-mason-retires/I just thought I would post this seeing as how they are a division rival with a questionable WR corps.Just thought I'd share for thoughts...Baltimore Ravens veteran wide receiver Derrick Mason, 35, abruptly announced his plans to retire from the NFL, releasing a statement late this afternoon.The two-time Pro Bowl wide receiver had his labrum and scapula surgically repaired during the offseason, but this isn't believed to be an injury-related decision."I have had a tremendous career and I played for two great teams, I had fun," Mason told Jocklife.com. "In my career, I have been able to do everything but win a Super Bowl. I've had the opportunity to play on great teams and with great players. After 12 years, I have seen it all and done it all. Right now, I am content with the decision I am making. All good things come to an end and I am ready to see what else life has to offer." "I have been thinking about this since season ended. Emotionally I am just not that enthused. I have not been that enthused to get up and work out...it was getting to that point."Mason had lobbied the Ravens for a contract extension after last season. Team officials had indicated that they were amenable to that request, but nothing was imminent. "This decision has nothing to do with the contract situation," Mason said. "I have made enough money, more than enough money. Emotionally there are things that are more important."It's time right now. I don't know what's going to happen from here, but it's going to be really nice to see what life has in store for me. What I want people to remember about my NFL career is that I played hard...played hard in practice and the game. I tried to make everyone better and would do anything to help."Last season, Mason battled the shoulder injury and still caught 80 passes for 1,037 yards and five touchdowns. For his career, he caught 790 passes for 10,061 yards and 52 touchdowns. With Mason retiring, the Ravens will likely have to go with Mark Clayton and Demetrius Williams as their top wide receivers. The Ravens explored a trade for Anquan Boldin during the offseason, but ultimately passed due to high trade compensation demands as well as Boldin's asking price.They were linked to Brandon Marshall, but never seriously got involved in a bid for the Denver Broncos' trouble-prone wideout. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ickey44 Posted July 14, 2009 Report Share Posted July 14, 2009 I've always respected Mason. However, I think this might have something to do with McNair's death. Last year he was clamoring for an extension, now he suddenly retires? I think the death of his friend has made him realize there's more important things in life right now. He's had a long and successful career and I seriouly doubt the Ravens go to the Superbowl this year, so I'm guessing he figured he may as well hang them up now. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ArmyBengal Posted July 14, 2009 Author Report Share Posted July 14, 2009 I was thinking the same thing in regards to the death of McNair since he was his go to guy in Tennessee as well. I think it's a shame, but if that's what he feels is the best decision for him, then good for him.Nothing but respect for Mason. I always thought he was a good WR. Good luck to him. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ickey44 Posted July 14, 2009 Report Share Posted July 14, 2009 Nothing but respect for Mason. I always thought he was a good WR. Good luck to him.My sentiments exactly. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BengalszoneBilly Posted July 14, 2009 Report Share Posted July 14, 2009 His late retirement really leaves the Ravens in the lurch. It leaves Flacco throwing to two regulars from last season. WR Clayton and TE Heap. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Clackwoods Posted July 14, 2009 Report Share Posted July 14, 2009 His late retirement really leaves the Ravens in the lurch. It leaves Flacco throwing to two regulars from last season. WR Clayton and TE Heap.That just made Todd Heap a hell of a lot more attractive in the fantasy leagues. I could see Flacco taking a big step back because Mason saved his ass a lot last year. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ArmyBengal Posted July 14, 2009 Author Report Share Posted July 14, 2009 Heap is an enigma at this point. He hasn't put up the same numbers since the '05 and '06 seasons where he caught a bunch of passes and TD's. He was hurt in '07 and played a full season in '08 with numbers not even half of what they were in '06. His YPC has stayed pretty much the same and he's a great 3rd down and redzone target, but it should be interesting to see how much Flacco looks to him this season if Heap can stay healthy. I think Kelley Washington is a lock to make the team now. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BengalByTheBay Posted July 14, 2009 Report Share Posted July 14, 2009 Well, aren't you guys all impressive taking the high road. Okay, I'll say it -- GOOD!! Mason was a killer on 3rd down against us for the past few years. He was nails for them and I, for one, am happy he's going to retire. His comments were remarkably well stated and he seems like he's got his head on straight. How many guys admit they've made plenty of money? Good for him -- I hope he enjoys the rest of his life and hasn't messed up his body too badly. Good for him, good for us, bad for the rats. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ArmyBengal Posted July 14, 2009 Author Report Share Posted July 14, 2009 Oh, don't get me wrong BBB, there are plenty of reasons to be happy about his announcement. He usually had good games against the Bengals and the fact he has created more problems for our division rival is nothing but a good thing for us. So yeah, I'll admit I'm happy about that. in regards to his life in general, I am more than happy to give him credit for his career and wish him and his good luck in the future. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BengalByTheBay Posted July 14, 2009 Report Share Posted July 14, 2009 Oh, don't get me wrong BBB, there are plenty of reasons to be happy about his announcement. He usually had good games against the Bengals and the fact he has created more problems for our division rival is nothing but a good thing for us. So yeah, I'll admit I'm happy about that. in regards to his life in general, I am more than happy to give him credit for his career and wish him and his good luck in the future.I get it -- you're stand-up guys and all. I guess it just fell to me to say "Good - f*ck the Rats!" Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ArmyBengal Posted July 14, 2009 Author Report Share Posted July 14, 2009 Oh, don't get me wrong BBB, there are plenty of reasons to be happy about his announcement. He usually had good games against the Bengals and the fact he has created more problems for our division rival is nothing but a good thing for us. So yeah, I'll admit I'm happy about that. in regards to his life in general, I am more than happy to give him credit for his career and wish him and his good luck in the future.I get it -- you're stand-up guys and all. I guess it just fell to me to say "Good - f*ck the Rats!"And a fine job you did !!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
roman12003 Posted July 28, 2009 Report Share Posted July 28, 2009 Mason has made his decision logically as he has mentioned that he has carried out his decision due to his emotional considerations. The Ravens cannot readily find a good replacement. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
derekshank Posted July 28, 2009 Report Share Posted July 28, 2009 Mason has made his decision logically as he has mentioned that he has carried out his decision due to his emotional considerations. The Ravens cannot readily find a good replacement.They are trying to replace him the same way Tennessee tried to replace him... With Drew Bennett. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ArmyBengal Posted July 28, 2009 Author Report Share Posted July 28, 2009 From what I saw, they signed Bennett to a one year deal only to have him retire a couple days later... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BengalByTheBay Posted July 28, 2009 Report Share Posted July 28, 2009 Good -- stay retired Mason -- f**k the Rats! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ickey44 Posted July 28, 2009 Report Share Posted July 28, 2009 Mason has made his decision logically as he has mentioned that he has carried out his decision due to his emotional considerations. The Ravens cannot readily find a good replacement.Oh, well.... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BengalszoneBilly Posted August 1, 2009 Report Share Posted August 1, 2009 Mason has finished playing his game with Baltimore and just showed up for camp.Baltimore Ravens receiver Derrick Mason has shown up to training camp at McDaniels College in Westminster, Md., and is going to end his retirement.Mason, who met with coach John Harbaugh and general manager Ozzie Newsome on Saturday to discuss the matter, was expected to send a letter to the NFL stating his intentions to rejoin the team."It was a tough decision, but I think it was a good decision for me to come back," Mason said in a statement. "I needed to evaluate my life, football and my career."I still have an intense fire inside me, and I want to play. … I felt like I had left something undone, and I wanted to finish it. I believe this is a good example for my son and my daughter on how to be thoughtful and also follow through."He called Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti on Saturday morning to express his decision to return.He was taking a physical Saturday afternoon and was set for a conditioning test afterward, with intention to suiting up for practice Sunday.Mason retired less than a week after the murder of close friend Steve McNair.The loss of his friend, family pressure, and the team's unwillingness to adjust his $3 million salary combined to lead to a surprise retirement announcement July 13.Harbaugh talked to Mason after the announcement and said he was optimistic that Mason would return. Camp started without Mason, but Harbaugh left the door open for Mason's arrival.The 35-year-old played a key role in helping Baltimore reach the AFC Championship Game last season. He started all 16 games and led the Ravens in receptions (80) and yards receiving (1,037). He then added 12 catches for 190 yards and a touchdown in three playoff games.Before Mason's retirement, the Ravens had been in the market for another veteran receiver. His retirement had put them in need of two receivers.With Mason gone, Mark Clayton and Demetrius Williams were the only receivers on the roster with catches last season. Clayton and Williams combined for 55 catches last season. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BengalByTheBay Posted August 1, 2009 Report Share Posted August 1, 2009 DAAMMMNNNNN!!!! He's the only Rat WR that seems to be clutch. DAAMMMNNNNN!!!! Oh well....acceptance aint that bad. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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