Former Patriots standout Vince Wilfork retires

Former New England and Houston defensive tackle Vince Wilfork announced his retirement from the NFL in a barbecue commercial Monday, a fitting farewell for a big guy who loved to eat.

Wilfork tweeted a video showing him un-taping his ankles, hanging up his cleats and grabbing grilling tongs. The video then shows the 35-year-old defender dancing, cooking ribs and smoking a cigar while wearing his trademark overalls.

"No more cleats," he says. "I'm moving on to smoke meats, fellas. Peace out. I'm outta here. Later."

The video ends by noting that "Vince's Farewell Tailgate" will take place Sept. 7 in New England. The defending Super Bowl champions open the season that Thursday night against Kansas City.

Wilfork's next stop could be the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. He certainly has enough numbers and rings to merit first-ballot consideration.

Wilfork played 13 NFL seasons, including the last two in Houston. He said earlier this summer he was contemplating retirement after the Texans declined to offer him a new contract.

The Texans recognized Wilfork's retirement on Twitter, saying "Thanks for the memories @wilfork75. We'll always have this." The caption came with a photo of Wilfork wearing overalls and talking to Houston coach Bill O'Brien.

Wilfork was drafted by New England in 2004 out of Miami and anchored the Pats' defensive line for 11 seasons. He was named to five Pro Bowls and helped the Patriots win two Super Bowls.