Retired Patriots safety Devin McCourty purchased space on 37 billboards Tuesday throughout eastern Massachusetts to thank fans for their support over his 13-year career.

The billboards read: “Thank you NE! You helped a young kid become a man, father, husband and a 3x champ!” The message ended with McCourty’s signature and occupied half of the billboard. The other half displayed a collage of photos featuring McCourty’s family and twin brother, Jason, who played in New England from 2018-20.

McCourty later tweeted a photo of himself in front of one of the billboards. The 35-year-old announced his retirement last week and intends to pursue a career in sports media. The Patriots will be holding a retirement press conference next Tuesday at the team’s Hall of Fame at 2 p.m.

“It has been a great ride,” McCourty told his twin brother and NFL Network analyst Jason McCourty on Friday. “I got the opportunity to talk to Mr. Kraft, to talk to Bill (Belichick), a lot of the guys on the defensive staff. Unbelievable ride, man, and I think it’s always tough to come to the end.

“This whole offseason has been so much back and forth for me mentally … but ultimately I think this is the best decision for me, my family, for my career. To be able to look back on my 13 years and just enjoy it.”

McCourty entered the league as a first-round draft pick in 2010 and became the fourth player in franchise history to be named to the Pro Bowl as a rookie. He later earned All-Pro second team honors in 2013 and 2016, and ranks third in Patriots history with 35 career regular-season interceptions, trailing only Ty Law and Raymond Clayborn. He was voted a captain every season after his rookie year and finished his career as a three-time Super Bowl champion and two-time Pro Bowler.