Marcus Davenport retires from NFL after nine seasons

Marcus Davenport has announced his retirement from the NFL at the age of 30. The former first-round pick of the New Orleans Saints played 78 games over a nine-year career, including stints with the Minnesota Vikings, Detroit Lions, and Chicago Bears. Davenport's retirement follows an injury-plagued final few seasons, where he managed only three sacks in 15 games. His early career with the Saints included 21.5 sacks in 63 games, but he ultimately did not meet expectations as a first-round draft choice. Reports indicate he asked for and was granted his release from the Bears prior to his retirement.

• 2:23 AMYahoo Sports — Marcus Davenport retires: Former Saints first rounder steps away