Falcons' McClure retires

Mar 25, 2013 - 7:51 PM Flowery Branch, GA (Sports Network) - Atlanta Falcons center Todd McClure officially announced his retirement on Monday.

McClure has been a staple of the Falcons organization since being drafted in the seventh round of the 1999 NFL Draft.

The 36-year-old McClure holds the franchise's streak for most consecutive starts with 148. He didn't play in his rookie season due to a torn ACL.

"To be in one place for my whole career, I definitely feel blessed," said McClure, who played in 198 career games. "It will be hard for guys to do that, just with the nature of the business. I'll cherish that forever.

"I love this franchise. I'll be a Falcon for life."

Falcons owner Arthur Blank said Monday that McClure will be a member of the team's Ring of Honor.