June 12, 2000

It's the end of an era, as Steve Young announces his retirement from professional football.

The native Utahn is the highest rated quarterback in NFL history, and will be ending a 17-year career. He spent the last 15 seasons with the San Francisco 49ers.

Young made the annoucement this morning in the 49ers locker room in Santa Clara, California. The two-time NFL M.V.P. says he's sorry to leave, but he feels he's doing the right thing. "The fire still burns, but not enough, given the stakes," Young said.

"For the record, I can still play. But I was able to step away and not worry about the immediate circumstances. I made all the arguments with myself. And I do this with really a lot of joy and with the thought of looking forward," he added.

A crowd of friends, family, and colleagues was on hand for the press conference, including Young's BYU college coach, Lavell Edwards, and Denver Broncos coach Mike Shanahan, who was offensive coordinator for Young during his Super Bowl years. Young had briefly considered finishing his career with a year in Denver.

Teammate Jerry Rice spoke today of "great chemistry and a great relationship" between Young and himself. The two combined on the field as the most prolific touchdown-pass team in history. They hooked up to score 85 times.

Young suffered his fourth concussion in three years last September 27 against Arizona. That's the last time he played in an NFL game. Doctors urged his retirement after that. He's had eight concussions, in all.

Young says now he can concentrate on other things, including his family. He was married earlier this year. He and his wife are expecting their first child at the end of the year.

Young also will play a part in the 2002 Winter Olympics, as a volunteer.