After 15 seasons, Mason goes out as a Raven

Mason: "My heart was here. It never left."

Coach John Harbaugh thanked Mason on behalf of his staff and the fan base for making that choice. Harbaugh said he never remembered the veteran receiver missing a single practice during the time he coached him, and he reminisced about the game at Dallas in December 2008 when Mason caught six passes, including a touchdown, despite playing with a cracked scapula that basically limited him to using just one arm.

“That’s the Derrick Mason that we all know and love,” Harbaugh said. “Derrick was a guy that you can count on. I’ve never seen a better route runner.”

Mason said that in his immediately future he will spend some time with his family in the Nashville area and do a little volunteer coaching. But before long, he wants to get back to work, perhaps getting involved in broadcasting or a business venture.

When he does, he’s comfortable that his football legacy is secure.

“I enjoyed my journey. It was fun,” Mason said. “I went out and did my job. I hope the numbers speak for themselves. Was I flashy? No. But I was hard-working. I went out and did what I was supposed to do.”