Kenyan Drake Announces Retirement After Eight Remarkable Seasons
Kenyan Drake, one of the most versatile running backs in the NFL, announced his retirement on Friday. At 30 years old, Drake leaves behind a career that was marked by memorable moments and significant contributions across five different teams over eight seasons.
Drake began his professional journey with the Miami Dolphins, who drafted him in 2016. His initial years were promising, but it was during the 2018 season that Drake became a household name. In a game against the New England Patriots, Drake executed what would be known as the "Miami Miracle," scoring a game-winning touchdown that remains one of the most iconic plays in recent NFL history. He spent over three seasons with the Dolphins, steadily proving his value as a dynamic playmaker.
A Fresh Start in Arizona
In 2019, Drake was traded to the Arizona Cardinals midway through the season. This move reinvigorated his career, providing a fresh opportunity to showcase his athletic prowess. The 2020 season turned out to be a personal best for Drake, as he set career highs with 955 rushing yards and ten touchdown runs. His impressive performance reinforced his status as one of the league’s top running backs.
Reflecting on his journey, Drake shared his thoughts on social media, stating, "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."
Journeyman Stints
Drake's career continued to evolve as he joined the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021. While his time with the Raiders was brief, he still made impactful plays that contributed to the team's efforts. By 2022, Drake found himself moving frequently. That year, he played for four different teams, eventually finishing the season with the Baltimore Ravens. During his tenure with the Ravens, he started five games, showcasing his resilience and versatility despite the challenges of constant transitions.
His stint with the Ravens came to an end in January, and he made a brief appearance in one regular-season game for the Green Bay Packers during the same season. Despite these frequent moves, Drake remained a reliable contributor whenever called upon.
Career Highlights
Over his eight-season career, Drake accumulated impressive statistics. He amassed 3,866 rushing yards, scored 33 rushing touchdowns, and maintained a career average of 4.4 yards per carry. His versatility extended beyond the ground game, as he caught 218 passes for 1,655 yards and scored eight receiving touchdowns. These numbers underscore his dual-threat capability and his role as a vital asset in any team’s offensive scheme.
Drake's ability to perform consistently, regardless of the team or system, has been widely recognized and appreciated by teammates, coaches, and fans alike. His retirement marks the end of an era for a player who always gave everything on the field, exemplifying professionalism and dedication.
Closing the Chapter
Looking back on his career, Drake can be proud of his journey from a promising rookie to a seasoned veteran known for his remarkable agility and game-changing plays. "Thanks to everyone that was along for the ride with me - wouldn't change a thing," he mentioned in his heartfelt farewell post.
Kenyan Drake’s announcement may signal the end of his professional football days, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure. As he steps into retirement, the NFL community tips its hat to a player who left an indelible mark on the league over the past eight years.