McGinest Set to Retire After 2008

Willie McGinest, the three-time Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots, is planning on calling it quits after the 2008 season.  The Browns signed him to a three-year, $12 million deal in 2006, but he was never able to perform at his highest level.  In that regard, the signing ranges over on the “bust” side of the meter.  He has only registered seven sacks and 107 tackles in 27 games, but that is not entirely his fault (let’s try and place the blame on the defensive line, as it was previously constructed).

McGinest is well-versed in the 3-4 defense, and has a close relationship with coach Romeo Crennel.  In his final season, McGinest might actually be a much bigger influence off the field, as he will be able to mentor rookie linebacker Beau Bell.