Kenyan Drake, the versatile running back known for his electrifying plays and solid consistency, has announced his retirement from the NFL at the age of 30. The announcement marks the end of an eight-year career that saw Drake play for five different teams and leave an indelible mark on each one.
A Career Kick-Started in Miami
Drake commenced his NFL journey with the Miami Dolphins, who selected him in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft. During his tenure with the Dolphins, which lasted for three-plus seasons, Drake showcased his ability to make game-changing plays. One of the most memorable moments in his career came in 2018, when he scored the game-winning touchdown against the New England Patriots in what is famously known as the "Miami Miracle." This play instantly etched his name in Dolphins' folklore.
Mid-Season Switch to the Cardinals
Midway through the 2019 season, Drake was traded to the Arizona Cardinals. The move proved to be a significant turn in his career. During the 2020 season, Drake set personal bests with 955 rushing yards and ten rushing touchdowns, emerging as a key player in the Cardinals' offensive scheme. His ability to break tackles and burst through defensive lines made him a critical asset for the team.
Transition to the Raiders and Ravens
In 2021, Drake joined the Las Vegas Raiders. Though his stint with the Raiders was relatively brief, he managed to leave his mark with impactful plays. The following year saw Drake donning the Baltimore Ravens' jersey. His 2022 season was a whirlwind, playing for four different teams and ultimately concluding the season with the Ravens. During his time with the Ravens, Drake started five games and contributed significantly to their running game, despite the team's struggles with injuries in the backfield.
A Brief Tenure with the Packers
In a surprising turn of events, Drake made a brief appearance for the Green Bay Packers during the regular season last year. However, his time with the team was short-lived, and he was released by the Ravens in January, signaling the final stages of his NFL career.
Reflecting on an Illustrious Journey
Drake's career statistics speak volumes about his impact on the field. Over eight seasons, he accumulated 3,866 rushing yards and 33 rushing touchdowns, maintaining an impressive career average of 4.4 yards per carry. Additionally, Drake was a reliable receiving option, catching 218 passes for 1,655 yards and scoring eight receiving touchdowns.
A Heartfelt Farewell
Announcing his retirement via Instagram, Drake expressed his gratitude and reflected on his journey: "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."
Kenyan Drake’s retirement marks the end of an era for a player who brought excitement and resilience to every team he played for. His journey from Miami to Arizona, Las Vegas, Baltimore, and a brief stop in Green Bay, exemplifies the unpredictable nature of an NFL career. As he steps away from the gridiron, Drake leaves behind a legacy of memorable moments and impactful plays that fans will cherish for years to come.