Argonauts.ca Staff
TORONTO — After six CFL seasons, 93 regular season games played, a Grey Cup ring and a host of personal accolades, offensive tackle Rob Murphy announced his retirement from the Canadian Football League today.
With that, Murphy would like to invite members of the media, former teammates and friends to raise a glass with him to celebrate the end of his CFL playing career. Murphy will be available to the media at a downtown bar on Thursday, May 24 from 2:00 p.m.– 4:00 p.m. where the first round will be on him.
Rob Murphy commented, “After 13 years of professional football that has spanned four leagues and three countries, I have decided to retire from the Canadian Football League. The memories and people I have met along the way have equalled the joy I got from physically dominating an opponent on the field.
“There comes a time in every athlete’s career that they must assess where they are and what they have accomplished. At this point, I have accomplished all of my professional goals that I set forth for myself. I would like to thank all my friends…and enemies…that I made in the CFL. My passion and intensity on the field was directly fueled by the respect I have for this game. I was truly honoured to be able to see this great country and the spirit the fans have for the CFL. Please join me for shots and beers in celebration of my retirement.”
Throughout his time in the CFL, Murphy became one of the top players in the league at his position in a career that was filled with accolades. He was rewarded for his outstanding play in four out of six seasons, being named a Divisional All-Star four times (2006, 2007, 2008, 2010), a CFL All-Star three times (2006, 2007, 2010), West Division Most Outstanding Lineman twice (2006, 2007) and the CFL’s Most Outstanding Lineman twice in his career (2006, 2007).
Murphy joined the Argonauts in 2009 and he played and started 43 games for the Boatmen. Rob was named Lineman Captain by his teammates in 2010 and 2011, and was named an East Divisional All-Star as well as a CFL All-Star that same year.
Prior to coming to the CFL, Murphy had stints in the NFL with the Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, Indianapolis Colts, Cincinnati Bengals and Kansas City Chiefs.
Murphy’s former head coach as a member of the Argonauts, Jim Barker, commented, “Rob was one of the great offensive tackles in the league while he played. He had a physical presence that made everyone around him better. He was a consummate pro, was always prepared and we were never worried about the left tackle position when he was in the lineup.”
Murphy’s first CFL Head Coach, Wally Buono commented, “Rob played a big part in the success of our 2006 Grey Cup championship team. His personality, work ethic and toughness were a big part his own success and what made him a great player at his position. The Lions and I wish him the very best.”
