Former Cleveland Browns tight end Aaron Shea officially announced his retirement on Friday, ending his NFL career. Shea, who was drafted by the Browns in the fourth round of the 2000 draft, has not played in a regular season game since 2005.

Former Browns TE Aaron Shea

If you recall, Shea signed a three-year contract with the San Diego Chargers after leaving the Browns, where he would've been acquainted with current Browns offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski. He suffered a back injury though, and was placed on the injured reserve -- he's been trying to get better since.

"My back just could not do it," Shea told ESPN Radio 850. "Today, I decided to retire. As much as I wanted to come back and play in a Browns' uniform, holding my girls and stuff like that is just a little more important."

Shea was always a high-character player on and off the field. There were rumors that after he was released by the Chargers following the 2006 season, that the Browns would try to sign him last June. Shea finishes his career with 97 catches for 851 yards and 7 touchdowns.

Reveal your favorite memories from Shea's stay with the Browns...there should be one in particular...