Friday marked the end of an era in the NFL as Kenyan Drake officially announced his retirement. The 30-year-old running back leaves behind an eventful eight-year career that saw him don the jerseys of five different teams and create a host of unforgettable moments on the field.
Early Career and Miami Days
Drake began his professional journey with the Miami Dolphins, having been drafted in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He spent three and a half seasons with the Dolphins, punctuated by memorable highlights, none more iconic than his game-winning touchdown against the New England Patriots in what is now known as the "Miami Miracle" of 2018. The play instantly enshrined Drake in the annals of Miami Dolphins history.
Mid-Career: Cardinals and Breakout Season
Midway through the 2019 season, Drake was traded to the Arizona Cardinals. It was in Arizona where he truly began to shine. The 2020 season turned out to be his career-best, as he set personal records with 955 rushing yards and ten touchdown runs. Drake's impressive performance provided a significant boost to the Cardinals' offense and showcased his potential as a leading running back.
Journeyman Years: Raiders and Ravens
Drake's career continued as he joined the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021. Though his stint with the Raiders was short-lived, he maintained his professionalism and work ethic, demonstrating his adaptability across various offensive schemes.
The following year found Drake in Baltimore, playing for the Ravens. Despite playing for four different teams in 2022 and ultimately finishing the season with Baltimore, Drake managed to start five games for the Ravens. His ability to step up in crucial moments did not go unnoticed, even as the team faced multiple challenges throughout the season.
Final Season and Brief Green Bay Appearance
Drake's tumultuous 2022 season ended with his release from the Ravens in January. In what would be his final appearance on an NFL field, Drake made a brief entry in one regular-season game for the Green Bay Packers. This fleeting moment encapsulated the unpredictable nature of Drake’s final chapter in professional football.
Career Stats and Legacy
Over the span of his eight-year career, Drake accumulated 3,866 rushing yards and scored 33 rushing touchdowns. His career average of 4.4 yards per carry underscored his consistency and efficiency as a running back. Additionally, Drake was a reliable pass-catcher out of the backfield, recording 218 receptions for 1,655 yards and eight receiving touchdowns.
Reflecting on the Journey
In his retirement announcement, Drake took to Instagram to share his thoughts on his career: "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."
These words highlight the resilience and humility of a player who, despite facing numerous challenges, remained dedicated to his craft and appreciative of the lessons learned along the way. Kenyan Drake's retirement marks the conclusion of a notable NFL career, characterized by remarkable perseverance and memorable achievements.