Testaverde to finish NFL career where it started

Last Updated: Saturday, December 29, 2007 | 2:55 PM ET

CBC Sports

Carolina Panthers quarterback Vinny Testaverde told the Associated Press on Saturday that he will retire after the team's final game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

"I just feel like it's time," Testaverde said. "Obviously, at 44, it does get a little bit tougher as the weeks go by.

"I'm glad I'm able to do it on my own terms and walk away from the game not only healthy but to experience some of the things I've been through."

After spending time as the third quarterback on New England's roster the past two years, Testaverde was thrust into action in October after Carolina quarterbacks Jake Delhomme and David Carr were injured.

Testaverde started five for the Panthers and completed 94 of 172 passes for 952 yards, five touchdowns and six interceptions.

He was then sidelined with back and Achilles injuries but said he was healthy if called upon Sunday.

He will be the No. 2 quarterback behind Matt Moore but would likely be given the choice to make an appearance in his final game.

Testaverde was the Heisman Trophy winner in 1986 and selected first overall in the NFL draft the following year by Tampa Bay, where he spent his first six seasons.

"I went through some tough times as a professional athlete there, but it's a great place, a great town. It's come full circle."

Testaverde then joined the Cleveland Browns and moved with them when they relocated to Baltimore as the Ravens. He has thrown 275 touchdowns and 267 interceptions over 21 seasons, with stops also in  Dallas and with the New York Jets.

Testaverde ranks sixth all-time with 45,233 career passing yards.

Carolina (6-9) will miss the playoffs for the second consecutive season after reaching the 2006 NFC conference final.

Tampa Bay (9-6) will host the New York Giants next week in an NFC divisional playoff game.

Testaverde holds the NFL record for throwing at least one touchdown pass in 21 seasons.