Minnesota Vikings college scout Scott Studwell has decided to retire after 42 years with the organization, including 14 seasons as a linebacker who became the franchise’s all-time leading tackler.

General manager Rick Spielman made the announcement at his pre-draft news conference, his voice wavering and his eyes welling as he spoke of his respect for and friendship with Studwell, who played for the Vikings from 1977-1990.

Studwell was the team’s director of college scouting from 2002-2013.