Kenyan Drake Announces Retirement After Eight NFL Seasons
After an eight-year journey marked by notable performances and memorable moments, Kenyan Drake has decided to hang up his cleats. The 30-year-old running back announced his retirement from the NFL on Friday, capping off a career that saw him don the jerseys of five different teams and leave an indelible mark on fans and teammates alike.
Drake began his professional career with the Miami Dolphins, who drafted him in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He spent a little over three seasons in South Florida, gaining recognition not just for his rushing ability but also for his versatility as a receiver out of the backfield. However, it was one memorable play in 2018 that forever etched his name in Dolphins lore: the "Miami Miracle," during which Drake scored a game-winning touchdown against the New England Patriots as time expired.
Mid-Career Highs and Trades
Midway through the 2019 season, Drake was traded to the Arizona Cardinals, a move that arguably took his career to new heights. In the 2020 season, he set career highs with 955 rushing yards and ten touchdown runs, becoming a key offensive weapon for the Cardinals.
Drake’s time in Arizona demonstrated his ability to be a consistent and reliable rusher, capable of carrying the load when called upon. His tenure with the Cardinals solidified his reputation as a playmaker and helped him earn a contract with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021.
Journeyman and Journeys’ End
The latter part of Drake’s career saw him take on a journeyman role. In 2021, he joined the Raiders, and the following year, he found himself moving between teams. He started the 2022 season with the Baltimore Ravens, where he ultimately appeared in five games and was released in January. During that tumultuous season, Drake played for four different teams, concluding the year with a brief appearance in a regular-season game for the Green Bay Packers.
Drake retires with a respectable career total of 3,866 rushing yards and 33 rushing touchdowns. Known for his dual-threat abilities, he also caught 218 passes for 1,655 yards and eight receiving touchdowns. His career average of 4.4 yards per carry underscores his efficiency and effectiveness on the field.
Reflections and Farewell
In his retirement announcement posted on Instagram, Drake reflected on his journey through the highs and lows of an NFL 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 shared.
Drake’s candid reflection offers a glimpse into the mindset of a player who experienced the full spectrum of what the NFL has to offer. His words echo the sentiments of many athletes who, despite not always loving every moment, appreciate the journey for the personal and professional growth it provides.
As Drake steps away from the gridiron, he leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, versatility, and memorable moments that will live on in the minds of fans. Whether it was the "Miami Miracle" or his standout season in Arizona, Kenyan Drake’s contributions to the NFL will not be forgotten. He embarks on his next chapter, grateful for the experiences and ready to navigate a new path in life.