John Madden Retires From Broadcasting

**UPDATE**
Cris Collinsworth has been named John Madden's successor. I don't love it, but he probably is their best option.

Man, this has been a terrible week for broadcasting, first Harry Kalas passes away and then John Madden retires. Of course people will make jokes of him retiring because Brett Favre retired, but...hell I can't defend that, its extremely ironic and funny as shit lol. Welp here's the statement release by John Madden:

"It's time. I'm 73 years old. My 50th wedding anniversary is this fall. I have two great sons and their families and my five grandchildren are at an age now when they know when I'm home and, more importantly, when I'm not...

"It's been such a great ride... the NFL has been my life for more than 40 years, it has been my passion and it still is. I appreciate all of the people who are and were such an important part of the most enjoyable, most fun anyone could have... that great life with the teams, the players, the coaches, the owners, the League... my broadcasting partners Pat and Al... the production people and the fans...is still great... it's still fun and that's what it makes it hard and that's why it took me a few months to make a decision.

"I still love every part of it the travel, the practices, the game film, the games, seeing old friends and meeting new people... but I know this is the right time."

I wonder who there gonna get to replace him?? Fiyah maybe?? I wish lol. STill can't wait for Madden 2010!

SOURCE