Kenyan Drake, a versatile running back who spent eight years in the National Football League, announced his retirement on Friday. The 30-year-old, who played for five teams over the course of his career, leaves behind a legacy of memorable plays and consistent performance.
A Journey Through Five Teams
Drake began his NFL journey with the Miami Dolphins, where he spent his first three-plus seasons. Drafted out of Alabama, Drake quickly showcased his ability to be a dynamic playmaker. One of his most memorable moments with the Dolphins was his game-winning touchdown in the "Miami Miracle" against the New England Patriots in 2018. This iconic play remains etched in the memories of Dolphins fans and NFL enthusiasts alike.
Midway through the 2019 season, Drake was traded to the Arizona Cardinals. It was with the Cardinals in 2020 that he truly hit his stride, setting career highs with 955 rushing yards and ten touchdown runs. His impressive stats that season highlighted his capacity to be a reliable workhorse for the team.
Following his tenure with the Cardinals, Drake signed with the Las Vegas Raiders for the 2021 season. Although his time with the Raiders was relatively short, he continued to contribute positively to the team's offense. In 2022, Drake found himself with the Baltimore Ravens, where he played for four different teams during the season, ultimately finishing the year with the Ravens. He started five games for Baltimore, demonstrating his continued value as a seasoned veteran.
Despite the frequent team changes, Drake maintained a career average of 4.4 yards per carry, accumulating 3,866 rushing yards and scoring 33 rushing touchdowns over his career. Additionally, his versatility was evident in the passing game, where he caught 218 passes for 1,655 yards and scored eight receiving touchdowns.
Reflecting on a Career
Upon the announcement of his retirement, Drake took to Instagram to share his reflections on his NFL journey. "Hard to believe 8 seasons have come and gone," he wrote. "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."
Final Chapter with the Ravens
Drake's final chapter in the NFL was marked by his contributions to the Baltimore Ravens during the 2022 season. Released by the Ravens in January, Drake made a brief appearance in one regular-season game for the Green Bay Packers last season before deciding to hang up his cleats for good.
The constant in Drake's career was his ability to adapt and make an impact wherever he went. His journey through multiple teams is a testament to his resilience and talent. As he steps away from professional football, Drake leaves a lasting impression on teammates, coaches, and fans.
Drake's retirement marks the end of a dynamic career that saw him overcome challenges and achieve significant milestones. His versatility as both a runner and a receiver made him a valuable asset to every team he played for. As he moves on to the next chapter of his life, Kenyan Drake can do so with the knowledge that he made a meaningful mark on the NFL.