Testaverde Closer To Retirement Dave Hutchinson NJ Star-Ledger 2/27/04 Barring a change of heart -- or perhaps a call from Cowboys coach Bill Parcells -- quarterback Vinny Testaverde has played his final NFL game. Testaverde, 40, has informed the Jets he won't be taking part in their off-season conditioning program, which begins March 22, and is contemplating retirement. "In an effort to figure out what is best for my family, myself and the New York Jets, I have informed (general manager) Terry Bradway and (head coach) Herman Edwards that I will not be participating in the off-season program," Testaverde said in a statement. "I'm considering, unless something changes, bringing an end to my professional career. "In discussions with the Jets' organization, they have been very positive and supportive of me. I really appreciate the opportunity to have come back to New York, my home, and have enjoyed being part of some of the most successful and exciting years the Jets have had." Testaverde and the Jets won't make anything official until after June 1, when the salary-cap hit will lessen for the club. If Testaverde were to be released or retire before June 1, the Jets would take a $7.5 million wallop on the salary cap in 2004. If he's released or retires after June 1, the number will be $3.5 million in 2004 and $4 million in 2005. The departure of Testaverde would save the Jets $1 million on the cap next season. The Jets would likely sign a veteran quarterback. Last month, the team worked out Canadian League star Ricky Ray. At the end of last season, Testaverde expressed a desire to continue his career but not as the Jets' third-string QB behind Chad Pennington and second-year pro Brooks Bollinger. Testaverde was solid last season when Pennington was hurt, finishing with a 62.1 percent completion percentage, 1,385 yards, seven touchdowns and two interceptions in seven starts. Though Testaverde feels he can still play, he doesn't want to uproot his family to continue his career, especially as a backup. But a call from Parcells could change his mind. The Cowboys are looking for a veteran quarterback, and Testaverde excelled under Parcells. "Vinny is a consummate professional who represents the New York Jets and the NFL in a first-class manner," Edwards said in a statement. "His overall contributions to the game are a testament to his dedication, hard work and perseverance, and we support any decision he decides to make." If Testaverde retires, it will bring to a close a 17-year career. Testaverde, a former Heisman Trophy winner and No. 1 overall pick, is one of only nine players to throw for 40,000 yards (40,943). He ranks seventh in NFL history in completions (3,334) and has thrown 251 career touchdowns and 235 interceptions. In six seasons with the Jets, Testaverde, a Long Island native, was 34-23 as the starter and led the team to the 1998 AFC Championship Game.