Kenyan Drake, celebrated for the unforgettable “Miami Miracle,” has decided to hang up his cleats. The former NFL running back took to social just yesterday to announce his retirement, and the outpouring of affection from the South Florida community has been heartfelt.
Drake was selected in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins. His career, marked by agility and determination, will always be cherished by Dolphins fans, especially for one electrifying moment at Hard Rock Stadium. It was there that Drake completed a jaw-dropping play that left an indelible mark in NFL history, catapulting him into the hearts of Miami supporters.
Remembering an exceptional journey, NFL reporter Cameron Wolfe tweeted:
“Happy retirement to NFL RB Kenyan Drake after 8 seasons. He will forever be in the hearts of Dolphins fans for scoring the TD in Miami Miracle, one of the most iconic plays in franchise history.”
Drake’s NFL tenure spanned eight seasons where he dazzled fans across several teams. After departing the Dolphins midway through his fourth season, he played for the Arizona Cardinals, Las Vegas Raiders, Baltimore Ravens, and a brief engagement with the Green Bay Packers. Drake ends his career with notable totals of 3,868 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns, with a standout 18-touchdown performance during his seasons in Arizona.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Drake won over fans with his engaging personality and acts of kindness, which did not go unnoticed among the football community. Tributes on social media reflected the fondness fans felt for him, with one fan’s comment cleverly playing on a memorable broadcast quote: “You will always have the right angle.”
The “Miami Miracle” itself was a spectacle of teamwork and quick thinking during a game against the New England Patriots. The play started with Ryan Tannehill passing to Kenny Stills, who lateraled to DeVante Parker, and finally back to Drake who dashed to the end zone, securing a dramatic win as the Patriots looked on in disbelief.
Kenyan Drake bids farewell to the NFL not only as a player with commendable stats but as a beloved figure whose sportsmanship and iconic moments will linger in the memory of fans for many years to come.