On Friday, veteran running back Kenyan Drake announced his retirement from the NFL, closing the chapter on a significant eight-year career that spanned five teams and left a lasting impact on those who watched him play. Drake, now 30, shared his journey and heartfelt sentiments on Instagram, reflecting on the highs and lows of his professional career.
"Hard to believe 8 seasons have come and gone. 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 wrote.
Early Years with the Miami Dolphins
Drake kicked off his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins, where he spent more than three seasons. Drafted in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft, Drake quickly showcased his talent and versatility. One of his most memorable moments came in 2018, when he scored the game-winning touchdown against the New England Patriots in what became famously known as the "Miami Miracle." This single play encapsulated the excitement and unpredictability that Drake brought to the gridiron.
Mid-Career Transition to the Arizona Cardinals
Midway through the 2019 season, Drake was traded to the Arizona Cardinals. This change of scenery provided a fresh start and an opportunity for Drake to further solidify his role as a key offensive player. The 2020 season was particularly standout for Drake, as he set career highs with 955 rushing yards and ten touchdown runs. These statistics underscored his ability to adapt and excel in a different offensive system.
Later Stints with the Raiders, Ravens, and Packers
The subsequent years saw Drake take the field for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021 and the Baltimore Ravens in 2022. Despite the challenges of constantly adjusting to new teams and playbooks, Drake remained a resilient and reliable player. In 2022 alone, he played for four different teams before finishing the season with the Ravens. During that season, he started five games for the Ravens, demonstrating his continued value as a starter.
The Ravens released Drake in January, which led to a brief appearance for the Green Bay Packers in a regular-season game. Even with these shifts, Drake consistently maintained a high level of performance.
Career Achievements
Drake's career statistics offer a testament to his skill and perseverance. Over eight seasons, he accumulated 3,866 rushing yards, scored 33 rushing touchdowns, and maintained a commendable career average of 4.4 yards per carry. As a dual-threat running back, he also caught 218 passes for 1,655 yards and scored eight receiving touchdowns. These numbers reflect not only his versatility but also his consistent execution on the field.
As Kenyan Drake steps away from professional football, his career will be remembered for both his on-field achievements and the sportsmanship he exhibited throughout his journey. From his breakthrough moments with the Dolphins to his remarkable season with the Cardinals, Drake's career has been marked by significant highlights and milestones.
Fans, teammates, and coaches alike will undoubtedly miss his presence on the field, but Drake's contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark. As he enters retirement, the NFL community wishes him well in his future endeavors, confident that his next chapter will be as impactful as his football career.