On a quiet Friday, Kenyan Drake announced his retirement from the NFL, concluding an eight-year journey that traversed five different teams. The 30-year-old running back leaves behind a career marked by notable highs and testing lows, each contributing to the player—and person—he is today.
A Journey Begins
Drake’s professional football journey began when he was drafted by the Miami Dolphins. Spending his first three-plus seasons with the Dolphins, Drake quickly proved himself to be a valuable asset. His defining moment with Miami came in 2018, when he scored the game-winning touchdown against the New England Patriots in a play that would go down in history as the "Miami Miracle."
Midseason Moves
In the middle of the 2019 season, Drake was traded to the Arizona Cardinals, a move that seemed to invigorate his career. The following year, he recorded career highs with 955 rushing yards and ten touchdown runs. His performance during the 2020 season solidified his status as a premier running back in the league.
A Series of Transitions
The subsequent years saw Drake transitioning through several teams. In 2021, he suited up for the Las Vegas Raiders, followed by a stint with the Baltimore Ravens in 2022. That year, Drake played for four different teams, ultimately finishing the season with the Ravens. Despite the constant changes, he managed to start five games and made notable contributions on the field.
In January 2023, the Ravens released Drake, marking the end of his run with the team. Yet, his NFL career wasn’t completely over. He made one brief appearance in a regular-season game for the Green Bay Packers, though it became evident that his time in the league was drawing to a close.
Reflecting on a Remarkable Career
Over his eight-season career, Drake amassed an impressive 3,866 rushing yards and scored 33 rushing touchdowns. His average of 4.4 yards per carry demonstrates his consistency and effectiveness as a running back. Additionally, he showcased his versatility by catching 218 passes for 1,655 yards and adding eight receiving touchdowns to his stat line.
As Drake reflected on his journey, he shared a heartfelt message on Instagram: “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.”
The Road Ahead
Drake’s announcement signals the end of a significant chapter in his life, one filled with both celebration and perseverance. The highs of scoring pivotal touchdowns and the camaraderie shared with teammates will forever be cherished memories. Simultaneously, the challenging moments, such as the grind of training camps, particularly in Miami, and the uncertainty of midseason trades, cultivated resilience and growth.
As he steps into retirement, Kenyan Drake leaves behind a legacy characterized by his dedication and adaptability. His journey through the NFL showcased not only his talent on the field but also his ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of professional football. While the next chapter for Drake remains unwritten, his contributions to the sport and the memories he created along the way will undoubtedly endure.