McNabb returns to Philadelphia to officially announce his retirement

Six-time Pro Bowl quarterback Donovan McNabb, left, and Philadelphia Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie embrace before a news conference today in Philadelphia.

PHILADELPHIA — Donovan McNabb’s No. 5 will be retired by the Philadelphia Eagles, becoming the ninth player in franchise history to receive that honor.

The six-time Pro Bowl quarterback formally announced his retirement today, though he hasn’t played in the NFL since 2011. McNabb will be inducted into the team’s Hall of Fame and have his jersey retired on Sept. 19 when the Eagles play the Kansas City Chiefs.

Former Eagles coach Andy Reid, who drafted McNabb with the No. 2 overall pick in 1999, now coaches the Chiefs. Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie praised McNabb’s toughness and “impeccable character.”

An emotional McNabb thanked the organization, former teammates and fans during a ceremony at the team’s practice facility.