SEATTLE — Seahawks four-time all-pro Walter Jones retired Thursday after 13 years in which he became the standard to which all left tackles aspired — and most defensive linemen succumbed.
Jones, 36, hasn’t played since Thanksgiving Day 2008 and has had two knee surgeries in that span.
Last week, Seattle drafted Russell Okung sixth overall and immediately said the rookie from Oklahoma State would be Jones’ replacement for 2010.
The team is retiring the number 71 jersey of the man Mike Holmgren has said is the best offensive player he ever coached — and Holmgren has coached Brett Favre, Joe Montana, Steve Young and Jerry Rice.
Jones’ is the third jersey the Seahawks have retired, following No. 80 for Hall of Fame wide receiver Steve Largent and No. 12 for their “12th Man” of passionate fans.
Eagles give Kolb extension
PHILADELPHIA — Quarterback Kevin Kolb and the Eagles agreed to a one-year contract extension through the 2011 season. He will receive a reported $12.26 million guaranteed over the next two years.
The Eagles also have Michael Vick on the roster, but this move guarantees there will be no competition for the No. 1 spot in training camp.
Footnotes.
Receivers Joey Galloway and Bobby Wade signed with the Redskins.
• Giants 44-year-old punter Jeff Feagles, who has played in an NFL-record 352 consecutive games, is expected to announce his retirement today.
