Breaking; Former Bills RB Suddenly Announces Retirement at Age 30
As the Buffalo Bills reconstruct their team for the 2024 NFL season, a past player is retiring from professional football permanently.
On Sunday, May 5th, Duke Johnson – the former NFL running back who played for the Bills in his last year – declared that he will retire at age 30.
Johnson, who was selected in the third round of the 2015 NFL draft by Cleveland Browns, announced his selection on Instagram with a touching message. He expressed how he had spent eight years playing for four different teams all while working towards one objective- to provide a better life for his family.
The Miami graduate never imagined becoming the top rusher in his beloved school’s history or being included on the list of South Florida’s greatest players. His sole desire was to play a game that could improve life for himself and his family, an opportunity he achieved successfully. He expresses gratitude towards all teams who provided him with chances to represent their organization along with fans who supported him through thick and thin.
Johnson expressed gratitude towards his veteran supporters who taught him the ropes without charge, and to the younger brothers who placed their trust in him as a mentor. He also extended thanks to all of his beloved coaches by stating they know exactly who they are. Johnson conveyed how deeply appreciative he is for each and every one of them from the bottom of his heart.
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude towards God for accompanying me throughout this journey and enabling me to conclude it in the same sound state as when I embarked upon it. Therefore, with great pleasure, I hereby announce that I am retiring from playing professional football. My sincerest aspiration is that everyone remembers me beyond just my accomplishments on the field of play. To both my wife and son – you were always at the forefront of all my endeavors.”
Duke Johnson, who used to play for the Bills as a running back, stood out during preseason games in Buffalo.
Before joining the Bills in 2022, Johnson had a stint with the Miami Dolphins where he played five games and tallied 71 rushes for 330 yards and three touchdowns. He also caught four passes for a total of 41 yards during his time there.
Johnson looked like a promising contender to secure a spot on the 53-man roster after he arrived in Buffalo. He showcased his abilities in three preseason matches, amassing two touchdowns and 84 yards with just 21 carries while performing return duties for punts and kickoffs as well. Nevertheless, Johnson encountered stiff opposition from ex-Bills rusher Zack Moss and rookie James Cook. The Bills decided to release him but enlisted him onto their practice squad shortly thereafter due to Johnson’s veteran experience.
Johnson was promoted to the active roster by the Bills for a single game, in which he amassed four yards on two carries. Although San Francisco 49ers extended him an invitation for a pre-season workout prior to the 2023 NFL season, Johnson went unsigned last year. Overall, his professional football career yielded a total of 532 rushes resulting in gains totaling up to2,265 yards and reaching eleven touchdowns; furthermore amassing129 receptions with approximately2 ,870 receiving yards scoring twelve times throughout this time period as well.
The 2024 NFL season brings changes to the RBs room,
Cook seems to have found his groove as a running back who can catch passes, and he’s poised to become Buffalo’s primary RB. Ray Davis, drafted in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL draft, is expected to make an instant impression. With Leonard Fournette and Latavius Murray not being re-signed by the Bills, there may be opportunities for other players like Cook and Davis to step up on offense.
Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic reported that Cook has reclaimed his position as the primary running back on the roster and will enter his third season with confidence.
“Johnson has signed a one-year contract and brought new energy to the team. His playing style is similar to Cook’s, therefore he will most probably fill in when Cook needs rest on game days. The Bills are hopeful that Davis can bring much-needed power and short-yardage ability they have been looking for over the years. It remains unknown how impactful Davis’ role will be but there exists a possibility where he may surpass Johnson before the season kicks off.”
