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Charles Tillman Plans To Officially Retire As A Bear On Thursday

(CBS) Charles Tillman plans to hold his "official retirement ceremony" Thursday and go out as a Chicago Bear, he told Laurence Holmes on 670 The Score on Wednesday evening.

After a 13-year career, the first 12 of which he spent in Chicago, Tillman announced his retirement Monday. He'll forever identify as a Bear, so it only made sense to go out that way.

"I'm not a big media guy," Tillman said ironically, considering he's as media friendly as they come. "I don't want to have a lot of people. I just want to sign my little contract, come and go home."

A second-round pick from Louisiana-Lafayette in the 2003 draft, Tillman ranks first in Bears history in forced fumbles (42), first in interceptions returned for a touchdown (eight) and third in interceptions (36). He'll forever be remembered for his famed "Peanut Punch" as well.

For his part, Tillman will always fondly remember Bears fans and those in the organization.

"I want to say thank you -- I really mean that," Tillman said.

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