Posted on Aug 01
Former All-Pro kick returner Tarik Cohen announces retirement from football, stunning the Jets
u/alex •
Tarik Cohen, former All-Pro kick returner, has announced his retirement from football, just weeks after signing with the New York Jets.
Why it matters: Cohen's decision to retire abruptly impacts the Jets' plans for their special teams unit and raises questions about his long-term health and future in the NFL.
Yes, but: The retirement comes as a surprise, considering Cohen's expressed enthusiasm about his comeback bid and recent statements indicating he felt fully recovered.
What to watch: The Jets will now need to reevaluate their options for kick returns and adjust their roster accordingly. It remains to be seen how they will fill the void left by Cohen's departure.
Cohen had a promising career before injuries derailed his progress. In 2018, he was recognized as a first-team All-Pro and earned a Pro Bowl selection while playing for the Chicago Bears.
- He led the NFL in punt return yardage that season, showcasing his dynamic playmaking ability.
- Cohen also recorded a career-high 1,169 yards from scrimmage, highlighting his versatility as a running back.
Unfortunately, injuries have plagued Cohen in recent years. In 2020, he suffered a devastating knee injury that required surgery and forced him to miss significant playing time.
- More recently, during an Instagram livestream workout in 2022, Cohen tore his Achilles tendon, further hampering his chances of returning to peak performance.
Cohen's retirement announcement comes as a disappointment for both himself and the Jets organization. He had worked diligently to regain his fitness and had dropped weight to get back into football shape.
- Despite setbacks, Cohen expressed confidence in his recovery, stating that he felt "all the way back."
- However, the toll of multiple injuries and the challenges of rehabilitation may have weighed heavily on his decision.
Quotes from Cohen and Jets personnel shed light on his journey:
- Cohen acknowledged feeling foolish for making the video that led to his Achilles injury, emphasizing his frustration with the setback.
- Coach Robert Saleh expressed optimism about Cohen's progress and believed he had regained his previous form.
- Special teams coordinator Brant Boyer praised Cohen's skills and vision, highlighting his potential impact on the team.
The bottom line: Tarik Cohen's retirement from football is a significant blow to the New York Jets' special teams unit and raises concerns about his long-term health. His decision underscores the unpredictable nature of professional sports and the challenges players face in recovering from injuries.