New York Jets wide receiver Corey Davis announced that he is retiring from the National Football League (NFL) just six years after being drafted.
Davis, 28, surprised fans by announcing his retirement on Wednesday afternoon in an Instagram post.
“For some time now I’ve been contemplating stepping away from the sport of football. This decision has not been easy,” the statement read. “Although I am a deep person, I am a man or few words. I’ve been searching my heart for what to do and I feel that stepping away from the game is the best path for me at this time.”
“I have more blessings than I could have ever imagined – I have an amazing family, a beautiful wife and two healthy children that I look forward to spending more time with,” the statement continued. “I am truly grateful for all the opportunities I have had and will continue to have on my journey. Thank you to my family and friends and the Jets organization for supporting me through this process.”
Davis spent two seasons with the Jets and four with the Titans during his six years in the NFL. Throughout his career, he caught 273 passes for 3,879 yards and 17 touchdowns.
His greatest season was in 2020, when Tennessee won the AFC South and he caught 65 catches for 984 yards and five touchdowns. His 16.8 yards per catch in 2022 placed him fourth in the league.
Before entering the pro scene, Davis played collegiately for Western Michigan. In 2016, he was named the first consensus All-American for the Broncos, and he now holds the record for most receiving yards in the FBS.
His sudden retirement may have shocked the football scene, but fans of Davis still showered him with support for his future endeavors.
“Congrats on accomplishing a life dream in playing in the NFL! You a legend!” read one comment. “Thank you for the memories and the sacrifices you made to be the player you were!”
“Happy for [your] family, blessings to be able to do it your way!” read another “Appreciate the game and inspiration you set forth my Brudda, God knows!”
