NFL analyst Tom Jackson retiring after 29 years at ESPN

— -- After 29 years as an NFL analyst with ESPN, Hall of Fame broadcaster Tom Jackson is retiring.

Jackson, a three-time Pro Bowler and a member of the Broncos' Ring of Fame, spent his entire 14-year playing career in Denver. He will work his final ESPN assignment this week at the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement weekend in Canton, Ohio.

"I have been blessed in my adult life to work for two companies, the Denver Broncos and ESPN, to do two things that I love -- play football and talk about football," said Jackson. "Having joined in the early stages of ESPN and remained with the same company for 29 years is especially gratifying. This move just comes at a time when the priority of my life is spending time with my family."

Jackson has been a mainstay on ESPN's NFL programming alongside host Chris Berman for nearly three decades, making the duo more family than co-workers.

"Tom long ago became almost a brother to me," said Berman. "I know every day he appeared on ESPN was a treasure for football fans. His knowledge, his passion, his insight, and his overall joie de vivre makes him special."

"Tom has been an integral part of ESPN's presentation of the NFL for three decades," added ESPN President John Skipper. "His influence as a trusted voice and mentor for the generation of players who followed him is an important part of his legacy. He has been a pleasure to work with and he will always be an ESPN family member."