The running back position in the NFL can take a huge toll on the body in a short amount of time, which can cause many who play the position to have shortened careers. One former Pro Bowl and All-Pro running back has officially announced that he is hanging up the cleats after eight seasons in the league. The former New Orleans Saints, and Arizona Cardinals rusher is now 32 years old.
New Orleans Saints, Arizona Cardinals Running Back Retires
Former star running back David Johnson took to social media on Sunday to reflect on his football career and officially announce his retirement from the sport. He thanked all of the fans and his teammates for their support and devotion throughout his career and said that he will miss the pro football lifestyle.
Former #Cardinals Pro Bowl RB David Johnson announced that he’s retiring from the NFL after eight seasons. pic.twitter.com/gvaCO2y1oM
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) May 19, 2024
Here is what the former star running back said in his farewell to the NFL:
I would have not been able to do any of this without God’s good grace! He did it all so a kid who didn’t have much, was given a chance to do what most can’t. I’m looking forward to my next career path in life. I don’t know exactly what that will be, but I hope it will bring me the same passion, excitement, and love as football did.
David Johnson Career
Johnson spent the first five years of his career with the Cardinals, the the next two with the Houston Texans, and ended his career playing with the Saints. Over his entire career, the running back amounted to 4,071 rushing yards and 39 touchdowns, while also adding 2,805 receiving yards with 18 touchdown catches. In 2016, Johnson had his best career season, going for 2,118 yards from scrimmage with 20 total touchdowns.
NFL World Reacts
Here are some of the reactions from the NFL world regarding Johnson’s retirement:
Real ones will never forget David Johnson's Prime carrying that cardinals offense
— Der German Tiger🐅 (@DerGermanTiger) May 19, 2024
Damn… thought bro was gonna be the next big thing after that 2015 season, injuries are tough
— Dom (@itsdomyoutube) May 19, 2024
Damn so he was trying to get back on that field all these years & injuries just wouldn’t let him. Unfortunate, dude was a beast running with the rock.
— KC (@HiBeamN) May 19, 2024
It's crazy how good DJ and Todd Gurley were for the span of 2 years, and then they just flamed out.
Will always be a fan of prime Cardinals DJ.— Dude_In_The_Desert ❁ 🌵 (@t_arnpreeest) May 19, 2024
Fans seem to have a great respect and understanding of the former star running back, who was one of if not the league’s best backs in the early stages of his career, but sadly could not continue his momentum due to several injuries. What is your favorite moment from Johnson’s career, and do you think he is making the right decision to retire?
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