Kevin Faulk, a running back with the New England Patriots for 13 seasons, announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday. Faulk retires as the Patriots' all-time leader in all-purpose yardage with 12,349 yards. At a ceremony for Faulk at Gillette Stadium, Patriots head coach Bill Belichick called Faulk "the ultimate team player," and added that Faulk is also the franchise leader in game balls with over 60.

Faulk spent his entire career with the Patriots, but only played in nine games over the past two seasons, and was inactive for the Patriots' Super Bowl appearance last season. Still, his mark was left on the Patriots, as several players and coaches attended his retirement ceremony. Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady both lauded Faulk's ability in the clutch.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft praised Faulk for his work ethic in a statement, saying "Kevin Faulk helped define the way an entire generation of Patriots fans have come to view and appreciate our brand of football."

Faulk won three Super Bowl rings during his time in New England.