Key Takeaways:
– Former Bills running back, Duke Johnson has announced his retirement from the NFL at the age of 30.
– Johnson was part of the Miami Dolphins before joining the Bills in 2022.
– Buffalo Bills are restructuring their team ahead of the 2024 NFL season.
New Era Unfolds as Duke Johnson Retires
Former Buffalo Bills running back, Duke Johnson, has decided to part ways with the National Football League (NFL) at the age of 30. Johnson, who spent his last NFL season with the Bills, made the announcement on Sunday, May 5. Initially drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the third round of the 2015 NFL draft, Johnson took to Instagram to share the emotional news with his fans.
Johnson’s Heartfelt Message
On Instagram, Johnson expressed his feelings and gratitude, saying, “8 Years 4 teams with 1 goal in mind, create a better life for my family.” The Miami alum spoke of his dream not being about records or accomplishments, but about seizing an opportunity to improve the financial stability of his family through the game he loved. He extended his thanks to the different NFL teams that gave him a chance, all the coaches who groomed him, and the fans who supported him through highs and lows.
A Look Back at Johnson’s NFL Stint
Former Bills running back, Duke Johnson, made significant contributions during his time on the field. Prior to playing for the Bills, he showcased his talents with the Miami Dolphins. During his five games with Miami, Johnson exhibited strong performances, registering 71 rushes for 330 yards and 3 touchdowns, in addition to four receptions for 41 yards.
His move to the Bills in 2022 marked a promising prospect for the team’s 53-man roster. Throughout three preseason games, his output included 21 carries for 84 yards and two touchdowns. Despite the competition posed by former Bills running back, Zack Moss, and then rookie James Cook, Johnson’s role remained vital.
Regrettably, the Bills released Johnson who was subsequently signed to the practice squad. In the single game he played on the active squad, he made two successful carries totaling four yards. While the San Francisco 49ers invited him for a workout ahead of the 2023 NFL season, Johnson remained unsigned. His six-year NFL career ended with impressive stats: 532 rushes for 2,265 yards and 11 touchdowns, along with 311 receptions for 2,870 yards and 12 scores.
Buffalo Bills: The Future Ahead
Following Johnson’s retirement, the Buffalo Bills are stepping into a new era. They’ve already started shaking up their roster before the 2024 NFL season kicks off. The Bills have drafted Ray Davis in the fourth round. Anticipated to make a significant impact, Davis could jump ahead in the depth chart before the season commences. Moreover, James Cook is starting to find his groove as a solid pass-catching running back, poised to become Buffalo’s primary running back (RB1).
Departing veteran running backs Leonard Fournette and Latavius Murray remain unsigned. Meanwhile, Ty Johnson’s return on a one-year deal has brought a spark to the team. His game complements Cook’s, indicating he’ll likely fill in when Cook needs a break.
In a tough and competitive world of NFL, the Bills remain optimistic, focused on delivering power and short-yardage ability to their game. With the game evolving rapidly, Johnson’s retirement signals the end of one chapter and the beginning of another exciting journey for the Buffalo Bills.