Kenyan Drake, a well-traveled and versatile running back, officially announced his retirement from the NFL on Friday, capping off an eight-year career that saw him don the jerseys of five different teams. Drake, who turned 30 this year, reflected on his journey with a sense of fulfillment and nostalgia, sharing his thoughts in a heartfelt Instagram post.
"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 expressed.
Beginning in Miami
Drake's professional career commenced with the Miami Dolphins, who selected him in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He quickly became a key contributor, spending his first three-plus seasons with the team. One of his most memorable moments came in 2018, during the infamous "Miami Miracle" game against the New England Patriots, where Drake scored the game-winning touchdown, cementing his place in Dolphins lore.
A Journey Across Teams
In the middle of the 2019 season, Drake was traded to the Arizona Cardinals, where he found considerable success. The 2020 season was a highlight in his career; he achieved personal bests with 955 rushing yards and ten touchdowns. His performance with the Cardinals underscored his potential and showcased his ability to adapt and thrive in different offensive systems.
Subsequent seasons saw Drake move to the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021 and then to the Baltimore Ravens in 2022. His tenure with the Ravens was marked by a whirlwind of movement, as he played for four different teams that season before ultimately finishing the year in Baltimore. Despite the instability, Drake started five games for the Ravens, exemplifying his resilience and readiness to step up when needed.
Drake's journey didn't end there. After being released by the Ravens in January, he made a brief cameo in one regular-season game for the Green Bay Packers, adding another chapter to his storied career.
A Lasting Impact
Over the course of his eight-season career, Drake accumulated 3,866 rushing yards, scoring 33 touchdowns on the ground. He maintained an impressive average of 4.4 yards per carry, demonstrating his consistent effectiveness. Additionally, he proved to be a reliable receiving option out of the backfield, catching 218 passes for 1,655 yards and eight touchdowns.
Drake's journey through the NFL was anything but linear, filled with peaks and valleys that tested his perseverance and adaptability. His ability to contribute in various roles and situations made him a valuable asset to every team he played for. While every destination presented unique challenges, it also offered opportunities to grow, both as a player and as a person.
Now, as he steps away from the gridiron, Drake looks forward to a new chapter, equipped with the lessons learned from one of the most demanding professions in sports. His retirement marks the end of one journey but surely the beginning of another.