Former Miami Dolphins returning ace and wide receiver Jakeem Grant has announced his retirement from the NFL.
Former Miami Dolphins return ace and wide receiver Jakeem Grant has announced his retirement from the NFL.
Grant took to Instagram to announce his departure from football, offering thanks to the sport and the people who have impacted his journey.
Grant's statement reads:
"For as long as I can remember, football helped me find my purpose. It gave me unforgettable memories, taught me hard lessons, and created brothers I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
"I'm thankful for every coach, staff, and teammate I met along the way for being part of the work we put in together. To the fans of the game, the energy and support you showed me throughout my career is something I will never forget.
"Most importantly, thank you to my wife and my family for standing beside me through every moment. Your love has always been home for me. You reminded me who I am beyond this game and I'm thankful to have you beside me for life.
"God guided me through every step of this path and I'm grateful for the way He used this game to shape my life. This game has always been a blessing, and I'm thankful for every moment it gave me."
Grant also posted a caption on the post that reads, " Today, I close a chapter with gratitude in my heart. Football gave me purpose, and every moment was a blessing. Thank you to everyone who was part of this journey. Here’s to the next adventure. #Retirement #Gratitude."
Grant was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 2016 in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL Draft out of Texas Tech.
Grant was not utilized in the passing game, but carved out a significant role as a punt and kickoff returner immediately. He secured a punt return touchdown in his rookie year and picked up 605 all-purpose yards. This included 165 punt return yards and 439 kickoff return yards.
Grant would follow that up with 871 all-purpose yards in 2017, securing 190 punt return yards and 479 kickoff return yards.
Grant's success as a returner flourished in the following years, leading to an All-Pro nod in 2020 and an All-Pro and Pro Bowl nod in 2021.
Grant ended his six-year career with the Dolphins, securing 978 punt return yards, 2,206 kickoff return yards, and three return touchdowns.