Jets' running back retires amid competition for spot on RB depth chart

Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, July 28th 2025 at 19:05 GMT by The Sporting News
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Jets Running Back Tarik Cohen Announces Sudden Retirement Amid Comeback Bid

In a surprising turn of events that has sent ripples through the NFL community, New York Jets running back Tarik Cohen has announced his retirement from professional football. The announcement came abruptly on Thursday, just as Cohen was attempting to revive his career after a lengthy absence due to injuries. At 29 years old, Cohen's decision marks the end of a once-promising journey that saw him rise to stardom with the Chicago Bears before a series of setbacks derailed his path. This development not only leaves the Jets scrambling to adjust their backfield plans but also highlights the harsh realities of injury recovery and the mental toll it can take on athletes in the high-stakes world of professional sports.

Cohen's retirement was confirmed by the Jets' organization in a brief statement, though details surrounding the exact reasons remain somewhat shrouded in speculation. Sources close to the team indicate that Cohen informed the coaching staff of his decision during training camp, effectively stepping away from the game he had been fighting to return to. This move comes amid what was supposed to be a triumphant comeback story. Cohen, who hadn't played in an NFL game since 2020, signed a one-year deal with the Jets in May, aiming to reclaim his spot as a dynamic playmaker known for his speed, agility, and versatility.

To fully appreciate the weight of this retirement, it's essential to revisit Cohen's career trajectory. Drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of North Carolina A&T, Cohen quickly made a name for himself as one of the league's most electrifying return specialists and running backs. Standing at just 5-foot-6, he defied his size with explosive performances, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2018 after leading the league in punt return yards and showcasing his dual-threat capabilities as both a rusher and receiver. That season, he amassed over 1,000 all-purpose yards, becoming a fan favorite in Chicago for his highlight-reel plays and infectious energy.

However, Cohen's career took a devastating turn in Week 3 of the 2020 season during a Monday Night Football matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. While returning a punt, he suffered a gruesome injury—a torn ACL, MCL, and a tibial plateau fracture in his right leg. The injury was so severe that it sidelined him for the remainder of that year and the entire 2021 season. Released by the Bears in March 2022, Cohen faced an uphill battle in free agency, compounded by additional setbacks. In a cruel twist, while training for a potential return, he tore his Achilles tendon in May 2022, further delaying his comeback and raising questions about whether he could ever regain his pre-injury form.

Despite these obstacles, Cohen's determination shone through. He spent the better part of two years rehabilitating, sharing glimpses of his progress on social media and expressing his unwavering desire to play again. His signing with the Jets earlier this year was seen as a low-risk, high-reward move for a team looking to bolster its special teams and running back depth. Jets head coach Robert Saleh praised Cohen's work ethic during offseason workouts, noting his speed and elusiveness as assets that could complement starters like Breece Hall and rookie Braelon Allen. Teammates echoed this sentiment, with quarterback Aaron Rodgers highlighting Cohen's positive influence in the locker room and his potential to be a "game-changer" on returns.

Yet, as training camp progressed, whispers of challenges emerged. Reports suggested that Cohen was struggling to fully shake off the lingering effects of his injuries, both physically and mentally. The rigors of NFL practices, combined with the pressure of proving himself after such a long hiatus, may have contributed to his decision. In a statement released through his representatives, Cohen expressed gratitude for the opportunities he'd been given, reflecting on the highs and lows of his career. "Football has been my life, my passion, and my escape," he said. "But after much reflection, I've decided it's time to hang up the cleats and focus on the next chapter. I'm thankful for every moment, every teammate, and every fan who believed in me."

The timing of Cohen's retirement is particularly poignant, coming amid a broader conversation in the NFL about player health, longevity, and the mental health aspects of the sport. In recent years, several high-profile players have stepped away prematurely, citing similar concerns. For Cohen, who has been open about his battles with depression and the isolation of injury recovery, this decision underscores the importance of prioritizing well-being over the grind of professional athletics. His story resonates with many athletes who face the dilemma of pushing their bodies to the limit versus knowing when to walk away.

From the Jets' perspective, Cohen's departure creates a void in their roster planning. The team had envisioned him as a key contributor on special teams, where his return skills could have provided a spark in a unit that struggled last season. Now, they must pivot, potentially relying more on undrafted free agents or practice squad elevations to fill the gap. General manager Joe Douglas, in a press conference following the announcement, acknowledged the loss but emphasized the organization's support for Cohen's choice. "Tarik is a warrior who gave everything he had to this game," Douglas stated. "We respect his decision and wish him nothing but the best in whatever comes next."

Beyond the immediate impact on the Jets, Cohen's retirement prompts reflection on his legacy. Though his career was cut short, he leaves behind a body of work that inspired undersized players everywhere. His 2018 Pro Bowl season, where he racked up 444 rushing yards, 725 receiving yards, and 411 punt return yards, remains a testament to his versatility. Off the field, Cohen was known for his charitable efforts, including work with youth programs in his hometown of Bunn, North Carolina, and advocacy for mental health awareness. Fans and analysts alike have taken to social media to share tributes, with many expressing hope that Cohen will stay involved in football in some capacity, perhaps as a coach or mentor.

As the NFL preseason ramps up, Cohen's story serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of athletic careers. One moment, a player can be at the peak of their powers, dazzling crowds with their talent; the next, they're grappling with the end of an era. For Tarik Cohen, retirement amid this comeback attempt closes a chapter filled with triumphs and trials. While it's bittersweet, it opens the door to new possibilities outside the gridiron. The football world will undoubtedly miss his flair, but his influence endures as a symbol of resilience and the courage to choose one's own path.

In the grand scheme of the sport, retirements like Cohen's highlight the human element often overshadowed by statistics and scores. They remind us that behind every jersey is a person navigating the complexities of ambition, injury, and self-preservation. As the Jets move forward without him, and Cohen embarks on his post-football life, the league loses a unique talent but gains a powerful narrative about knowing when to say goodbye.

This development also sparks discussions about how teams approach players with extensive injury histories. The Jets' gamble on Cohen was admirable, reflecting a willingness to invest in redemption stories, but it also underscores the risks involved. Moving ahead, expect other teams to scrutinize similar signings more closely, balancing potential upside with the realities of recovery timelines.

Ultimately, Tarik Cohen's retirement is more than just a roster note—it's a poignant endpoint to a career that burned brightly, if briefly. His journey from small-school standout to NFL star, through adversity and now to retirement, encapsulates the unpredictable nature of professional sports. As fans, we can only hope that whatever lies ahead for Cohen brings him the fulfillment and peace he deserves after years of battling back. (Word count: 1,048)

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