Kenyan Drake, a free agent running back in the NFL, has decided to retire, as announced on his social media platforms. Drake’s professional football journey spanned eight seasons during which he played for six different teams, starting with the Miami Dolphins who picked him in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft from the University of Alabama.
Drake is celebrated in Miami for his memorable game-winning touchdown against the New England Patriots in 2016, famously known as “The Miami Miracle,” involving a double lateral play. Another highlight from his rookie season came when he scored off a kickoff return in a game against the New York Jets, contributing to a Dolphins win.
Josina Anderson, a Senior NFL Insider and host of TheCrew, confirmed Drake’s retirement after discussing it with him. Drake expressed contentment with his decision, citing the timing felt right although he loves the game more than its business aspect. He mentioned he is healthy and eager to begin a new chapter in his life.
Beyond his time with the Dolphins, Drake took to the fields for the Arizona Cardinals, Las Vegas Raiders, Baltimore Ravens, and Green Bay Packers. His move from Miami to Arizona came just before the 2019 trade deadline in exchange for a conditional sixth-round pick, potentially a fifth-round pick.
Drake concluded a four-year, $3.5 million contract in 2019, after which the Cardinals tagged him for the 2020 season. That year marked his best professional performance, with 955 rushing yards and ten touchdowns. Drake’s NFL career totals include 3,866 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns, along with 218 receptions for 1,655 yards and eight touchdowns.
Following his success, he signed with the Raiders with a guaranteed $11 million but was released before the 2022 season. He played his final season with the Baltimore Ravens.
Drake’s collegiate career was equally impressive, under coach Nick Saban at Alabama, where he was part of two national championship teams. In his last college game, Drake spectacularly returned a kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown during the 2016 College Football Playoff National Championship against Clemson.