In an announcement made through his social media accounts, Corey Davis explained his thought process behind this significant decision.
“After careful consideration, I have arrived at the conclusion that it’s time for me to step away from the world of football. This choice has been challenging, and while I am a person of few words, I have deeply pondered this. My heart led me to this decision, and I believe that stepping away from the sport is the most suitable path for me at this juncture.
“I am fortunate beyond measure – I am blessed with a wonderful family, a loving wife, and two healthy children whom I am eager to spend more quality time with. I am sincerely thankful for all the opportunities that have come my way and will continue to present themselves on my journey. I extend my gratitude to my family, friends, and the Jets organization for their unwavering support throughout this period.”
Corey Davis, who was selected as the fifth overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans, marked the commencement of his professional career with exceptional college achievements at Western Michigan. Following four seasons with the Titans, he transitioned to the New York Jets under a lucrative three-year contract worth $37.5 million.
At the time of his retirement announcement, Corey Davis was in the final year of his contract with the Jets, with a base salary of $10.5 million.
The Jets conveyed their appreciation, stating, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your invaluable contributions to the Jets organization. We wish you the very best, CD.”
Initially anticipated to play a pivotal role in the Jets’ quest to end a 12-year playoff drought, Corey Davis was expected to collaborate with quarterback Aaron Rodgers and other offensive assets. However, his role shifted over time, and emerging talent Garrett Wilson, the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year, assumed a central position, building a strong rapport with Rodgers during early training camps. The Jets also augmented their receiving options by enlisting experienced players such as Mecole Hardman, Allen Lazard, and Randall Cobb to fortify their wide receivers lineup.
Corey Davis openly shared his struggles – both mental and physical – during his early days with the Jets. His journey was marked by tragedy in November 2020, when his elder brother, Titus, succumbed to kidney cancer. Despite this loss, Corey Davis chose to honor his brother’s memory by playing for the Titans the day after his passing and persevered through the rest of the season.
His resilience led him to secure a contract with the Jets after amassing a career-high 984 receiving yards on 65 catches, accompanied by five touchdowns in his fourth season. However, his debut year in New York was fraught with injuries, limiting him to just nine games.
Overcoming the emotional toll of his brother’s demise and the challenge of injuries while shouldering the responsibility of being the team’s primary receiving option, Corey Davis acknowledged enduring a “difficult” period.
Reflecting on those times, he shared, “I was grappling with significant mental strain. The past few years have been incredibly trying, and I felt I never truly had the space to process everything. Losing my brother, who was also my closest friend, was a profound blow, and I didn’t have the chance to properly grieve. This offseason provided me with that opportunity, and I emerged stronger.”
Throughout this challenging period, Corey Davis acknowledged his wife’s pivotal role in helping him navigate his struggles.
Despite facing injuries in 2022, Corey Davis participated in 13 games (with 10 starts), amassing 32 receptions, 536 yards, and two touchdowns.
Now at 28 years old, Corey Davis is directing his focus toward life beyond football, prioritizing the enrichment of his family life.
Concluding his NFL journey, Corey Davis leaves behind a legacy of 3,879 receiving yards amassed over 273 catches, punctuated by 17 touchdowns in a total of 78 games played.
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