Agent confirms Ex-Jet Brandon Moore retiring
Jets guard Brandon Moore leaves the field after practice during training camp. (Aug. 6, 2012) Credit: Newsday/J. Conrad Williams, Jr.
CORTLAND -- It seemed Brandon Moore was ready to be a part of America's Team. But a good night's sleep has led to a change of heart.
Late Tuesday night, the former Jets right guard agreed to a one-deal with the Dallas Cowboys, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. But -- in a surprising move -- the 33-year-old Moore chose to retire instead, his agent, Deryk Gilmore, confirmed to Newsday.
"I'm a man of my word. I hated letting Bill (Callahan) down," Moore told Fox Sports 1's Mike Garafolo, referring to his former offensive line coach with the Jets. Callahan now is the Cowboys' offensive coordinator and O-line coach.
Moore started 142 games over his 10-year career (including 137 straight games) and also made the Pro Bowl in 2011. Despite being a solid lineman for the Jets, it became increasingly clear that he would not be returning to Florham Park in 2013.
The free agent met with the division-rival Dolphins in March and also drew interest from the Chicago Bears. But, surprisingly, Moore has yet to sign on with another NFL team.
To shore up the offensive line following the expected departures of both Moore and left guard Matt Slauson, the Jets signed Willie Colon and Stephen Peterman, and drafted rookies Brian Winters, Will Campbell and Oday Aboushi.
It was reported last month that Moore was expected to call it quits. But Gilmore quickly denied his client's impending retirement.
