One day after the Chicago Bears signed Michael Bush, signaling the end of Marion Barber 's time in the Windy City, Barber announced his retirement. Barber, 28, played six seasons with the Cowboys before joining the Bears in 2011. His best seasons came in 2006 and 2007, years in which he averaged 4.8 yards per carry and scored a collective total of 28 touchdowns.
"I want to thank everyone who gave me the opportunity to play, and I'm very thankful to have had the chance to suit up for two of the NFL's most storied organizations," Barber told the Bears' official website on Friday. "I want to thank everyone who helped me become a better player. I owe a lot to a lot of coaches, and am also very grateful to the owners and organizations I played for. Last but not least, I want to thank the fans for the support and inspiration they gave me."

Fantasy Analysis:

Barber's rise to fantasy stardom -- some may forget that he was a solid second-round pick about four or five years ago -- was basically matched in speed by his decline in the fantasy abyss. Barber never saw an oncoming hit that he didn't like. It made him a marvel to watch early in his career as Barber seemed like the toughest guy on the field. But that physical style took its toll on Barber. It's been clear for about two years now that his tank has been running in the red at an age when he's supposed to be in his prime. Instead, Barber retires at 28 years old. I find it kind of sad, But that's the nature of this game. I'm sure Barber, well aware of he wanted to play it, knew he wouldn't stick around too long.