Former Green Bay Packers star wide receiver Jordy Nelson announced his retirement from the NFL on Wednesday. Packers GM Brian Gutekunst wasted little time in releasing a statement congratulating Nelson on an incredible career, via the Packers' Instagram page.

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Nelson spent 10 seasons in the NFL – nine of them with the Green Bay Packers (his last season with the Oakland Raiders).

In those 10 seasons, Nelson recorded 613 receptions for 8,587 yards and 72 touchdowns. 550 of those receptions for 7,848 yards and 69 touchdowns came with Green Bay.

For his nine seasons with the Packers, Nelson was a fantastic target for Aaron Rodgers. He was consistently their best receiver and provided Rodgers with a deep threat, as well as someone he could trust across the middle for short-yardage plays.

For some reason, Nelson was often overlooked during his career. While he was always considered a great receiver, he was never really put in the same class as the top performers at his position. This is despite the numbers saying he should be.

It was an ultimate class move for the general manager to release a statement so quickly. He also points out that Nelson's achievements with the team will eventually lead to him being inducted into their Hall of Fame.

Nelson was a fan favorite in Green Bay – and for obvious reasons. The receiver always played at 100 percent and will go down in history as one the greatest the Packers ever had at the position. His talent was a significant reason why they won the Super Bowl in 2010 as well.

Although Nelson still hadn't broken out in the regular season yet, the 2010 postseason could be seen as his coming out party. In fact, the Super Bowl was his biggest game to date.

Against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Nelson racked up nine receptions for 150 yards and one touchdown. Helping lead the Packers to their first Super Bowl since the 1996 season.

At just 33, and after a solid season, there's still plenty left in the tank for Nelson. However, he seems ready to walk away from the game. After such a great career all the Packers and fans everywhere can say is – thank you.