Charles Woodson is five years older than Nnamdi Asomugha, but does not feel he and his former teammate are on the same path. Asomugha officially announced his retirement last week at a ceremony at the Oakland Raiders team facilities. Despite being 37, Woodson says retirement is not in his upcoming plans, but a return to the Raiders next season certainly is.
Woodson was present as Asomugha announced his retirement. The Raiders cornerback told reporters there would be no ceremony for him in the upcoming future.
"Sitting up there with him, you know that day is coming," Woodson said, via Contra Costa Times. "When he said it was hard for him to say the 'retirement' word, I know I'm going to feel the same way. But mentally, I'm not there yet."
Woodson signed over to the Raiders after getting released by the Green Bay Packers. It was with that team where he played his best, winning a Super Bowl and Defensive Player of the Year honors. The veteran only managed a contract with Raiders right before training camp begin, getting very few looks on the free agent market.
In 2013, Woodson represented a veteran presence in the young Raiders secondary. He only missed two practices all season, playing the second-most snaps on the defense behind Nick Roach. While Oakland's season ended in disappointing fashion following a loss to the Denver Broncos, Woodson is confident he can return just as dominant and help the Raiders once again.
"I think it shows a lot of people don't know what they're talking about as far as my health and my legs," Woodson said. "I know all the talk was, 'His legs aren't going to hold up.' He can't run anymore. I had the broken collarbone twice, but collarbones heal. As far as going out there and doing everything I've normally done, I can do all those things. That's why I want to come back and play another one."
Woodson finished the season with 116 tackles. Head coach Dennis Allen praised the veteran for being a positive influence to the young players and setting a solid example of professional on and off the field behavior.
The cornerback is lobbying for a contract extension with both Allen and general manager Reggie McKenzie. Woodson is finishing up a one-year contract worth $4.3 million.
"I've made mention of it," Woodson said. "I've told you guys in the media and brushed up against Reggie and let him know. So we're just going to see what happens."
Woodson acknowledges the transition for both Allen and McKenzie has not been easy as the team continues to rebuild. He voiced his support for both personnel, confident they can bring stability to the franchise.