Kenyan Drake Announces NFL Retirement
After eight seasons of thrilling performances and unforgettable moments, Kenyan Drake has decided to hang up his cleats. The 30-year-old running back announced his retirement from the NFL on Friday, bringing to an end a career that spanned five teams and left an indelible mark on the league.
"Hard to believe 8 seasons have come and gone," Drake shared in an Instagram post. "I've loved the journey - the wins, the moments big and small, the camaraderie, the energy, all of it. I can't say I loved everything (if you've ever done training camp in Miami you can relate lol), but certainly appreciate the lows and the grind, and know those moments grew me as a football player and more importantly as a person. Ready to enjoy a little retirement and see where the next chapter takes me. Thanks to everyone that was along for the ride with me - wouldn't change a thing."
Drake began his NFL journey with the Miami Dolphins, who selected him in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft. During his initial three-plus seasons with the Dolphins, he demonstrated flashes of brilliance, including the memorable "Miami Miracle" in 2018 when he scored the game-winning touchdown against the New England Patriots. This play cemented his reputation for clutch performances and dynamic playmaking ability.
Midway through the 2019 season, Drake was traded to the Arizona Cardinals, a move that would lead to one of the most productive periods of his career. In 2020, he posted career highs with 955 rushing yards and ten touchdown runs, solidifying his status as a versatile and reliable running back. His time with the Cardinals showcased his ability to be a feature back and a critical component of a high-octane offense.
The following seasons saw Drake don uniforms for the Las Vegas Raiders and later the Baltimore Ravens. In 2021, he joined the Raiders, and by 2022, he found himself playing for a remarkable four different teams, ultimately ending the season with the Ravens. Despite the continuous transitions, Drake's performance remained consistent. He started five games for the Ravens, providing much-needed stability and experience to their backfield.
Drake's perseverance and adaptability were evident as he continued to contribute effectively despite the constant changes. However, after being released by the Ravens in January, his NFL journey took another brief turn when he appeared in one regular-season game for the Green Bay Packers.
Over his eight-season career, Drake accumulated impressive stats, tallying 3,866 rushing yards and 33 rushing touchdowns. He maintained a solid career average of 4.4 yards per carry, underscoring his efficiency and effectiveness on the field. Additionally, Drake proved to be a valuable asset in the passing game, catching 218 passes for 1,655 yards and scoring eight receiving touchdowns.
Drake's career, while marked by transitions and trades, was also highlighted by moments of sheer brilliance and resilience. His versatility as both a rusher and receiver made him a valuable player for every team he was part of. As he steps away from the game, he reflects on the journey with gratitude and a sense of accomplishment.
Kenyan Drake's retirement leaves a legacy of memorable plays, consistent production, and a deep appreciation for the sport and its community. His fans, teammates, and coaches will undoubtedly remember him for his contributions on and off the field. As he embarks on this new chapter, the football world sends its best wishes to a player who truly left everything out on the field.