On Friday, Kenyan Drake announced his retirement from the NFL, closing the book on an eventful and impactful eight-year career that saw him don the uniforms of five different teams. At the age of 30, Drake leaves behind a legacy defined by significant plays and memorable moments in key NFL matchups.
A Journey Through Five Teams
Drake's professional journey began with the Miami Dolphins, where he spent his first three-and-a-half seasons. It was with the Dolphins that Drake made one of his most unforgettable marks in NFL history. In 2018, during a game against the New England Patriots, Drake scored the game-winning touchdown in a play that has since been immortalized as the "Miami Miracle."
Midway through the 2019 season, Drake was traded to the Arizona Cardinals. In his new environment, he took his game to new heights. The 2020 season proved to be a standout year for him, setting career highs with 955 rushing yards and ten touchdown runs. This performance underscored Drake's ability to adapt quickly and make an impact regardless of the team colors he wore.
Drake's journey then led him to the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021. After a season with the Raiders, Drake moved on to the Baltimore Ravens in 2022. His time with the Ravens was notable for the sheer volume of transitions. In an unusual year, Drake played for four different teams, ultimately finishing the season as a Raven. During that whirlwind season, he managed to start five games for the Ravens, showcasing his resilience and versatility.
In January, the Ravens released Drake. However, he made a brief return to the field, appearing in one regular-season game for the Green Bay Packers. This brief stint added another chapter to his rich and varied NFL story.
A Career of Consistency and Excellence
Over the course of his career, Drake accumulated 3,866 rushing yards and scored 33 rushing touchdowns. He maintained a commendable career average of 4.4 yards per carry, emphasizing his effectiveness and efficiency as a running back. Additionally, Drake proved to be a reliable receiving option out of the backfield, catching 218 passes for 1,655 yards and scoring eight receiving touchdowns.
Reflecting on his career, Drake took to Instagram to share his thoughts and gratitude: "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."
It's clear from his words that Drake cherished the highs and lows of his career, recognizing the growth and development that came from each experience. His heartfelt message reflects not just his gratitude but also his readiness to embrace the next phase of his life with the same vigor and enthusiasm he brought to the gridiron.
Kenyan Drake's retirement marks the end of a remarkable chapter in professional football. While his physical presence on the field will be missed, his legacy, defined by resilience, adaptability, and a few iconic moments, will undoubtedly endure in NFL lore.