"Brian Dawkins said Thursday the only way he would play one more NFL season is if he returns to the Broncos.

Winding up in free agency and playing one more season for another team is not a likely option, the Broncos' veteran safety said following an NFL Players Association news conference.

Not that Dawkins, 38, is ready to commit to playing one more year or retirement after the safety finished his 16th NFL season with a ninth Pro Bowl nod.

"The season is not over yet," Dawkins said. "Our season is, but this football season is not. So why talk about that? I'm not ready to make that announcement. I'll pray about it. If the Broncos want me back at that time, we'll talk.""