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Report: Former Patriot Ellis Hobbs to Retire

After suffering his second neck injury in two years, Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Ellis Hobbs will retire from the NFL, according to Adam Caplan of Fox Sports.

Hobbs, 27, was traded to the Eagles after four seasons as a starter for the New England Patriots. Throughout his six year career, Hobbs recorded 10 interceptions and three kickoff return touchdowns — including a 108 yard return in 2007.

During his stint in New England, Hobbs fielded his fare share of critism and often appeared in Bill Belichick’s doghouse. One noticable incident, which sums up Hobbs’ career in New England, took place when Hobbs made a tackle against the New Orleans Saints in his first preseason game, and pointed to the back of his jersey — showing everyone his name. It was this type of action that transpired over the next four years.

Still, Hobbs was a solid contributor and helped New England win football games. In a game where the average professional football player is out of the league in three years, Hobbs’ path was chosen by injury, not because he couldn’t find work.

In a previous interview with Comcast Sports in Philadelphia, Hobbs talked about the prospects of retirement.

“When you look at such an alarming rate – 70 percent of guys two years out of the league are depressed, divorced, bankrupt,” Hobbs said. “Why do you want to live a life like that? I can look at it in so many ways, but I can look at it in the most positive way – I’m getting out just in time: with my health, my family, and it’s time to move on to the next career.”

In the end, the former 2005 third round pick from Iowa State will walk away with his health in tact and pursue a career in sports broadcasting.

About Matthew Marcantonio - My Twitter

Matthew Marcantonio is the Patriots and college football editor at Sports of Boston. Marcantonio has contributed for two newspapers; the Sentinel & Enterprise (Leominster, Mass) and The Advocate (Baton Rouge, La) and held internships with The Bleacher Report and Sports Illustrated.

Tags: Ellis Hobbs, New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles