After six seasons in the NFL, running back Rashaad Penny has announced his retirement.
The Panthers added Penny to the reserve/retired list on Tuesday and subsequently signed undrafted rookie wide receiver Tayvion Robinson.
Penny, who is 28 years old, joined the Panthers in May, marking a return to coach Dave Canales. His most productive season came in 2021 with the Seattle Seahawks when Canales served as the passing game coordinator and new Carolina offensive coordinator Brad Idzik was an offensive assistant. During that year, he recorded 119 carries for 749 yards and six touchdowns.
Having signed with the Panthers in May, Rashaad Penny retires from the NFL at just 28 years of age. Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
Last season, Penny played for the Philadelphia Eagles but only participated in three games where he had 11 rushes totaling 33 yards.
Penny was selected by the Seattle Seahawks as a first-round pick (27th overall) in the 2018 draft and has accumulated a career total of 1,951 rushing yards along with 13 touchdowns.
ESPN’s David Newton contributed to this report.
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Rashaad Penny Retires from NFL After Six Seasons
Overview of Rashaad Penny’s NFL Career
Rashaad Penny, the former running back who showcased his talents in the NFL for six seasons, has officially announced his retirement. Known for his explosive speed and versatile playing style, Penny made an impact on the field with both the Seattle Seahawks and the Philadelphia Eagles. His journey through the league reflects not only his athletic prowess but also the challenges faced by professional athletes.
Early Life and College Career
Penny was born on February 2, 1996, in Norwalk, California. He attended Norwalk High School, where he excelled in football and track. After high school, he played college football at San Diego State University. During his time at SDSU, Penny became one of the standout running backs, setting records and earning numerous accolades:
- First-team All-Mountain West (2016, 2017)
- Mountain West Conference Offensive Player of the Year (2017)
- Broke the school record for most rushing yards in a season
Draft and Professional Career
Rashaad Penny was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. His initial seasons were marked by flashes of brilliance, highlighted by key performances:
- 2018: Penny had a modest rookie season, rushing for 419 yards and scoring two touchdowns.
- 2019: He began to find his rhythm, rushing for 370 yards in just 10 games.
- 2020: Despite injuries, Penny showed glimpses of his talent, contributing 162 rushing yards.
- 2021: He had a breakout game against the Detroit Lions, rushing for 170 yards and scoring two touchdowns.
- 2022: Penny signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he aimed for a fresh start.
Injuries and Their Impact on Career
Throughout his career, injuries played a significant role in shaping Penny’s journey. Navigating knee injuries and rehabilitation processes, he faced challenges that many players encounter. The impact of injuries on his performance and development was evident, particularly in the following ways:
- Limited game time reduced his opportunities to showcase his skills.
- Injuries affected his overall statistics, hindering his potential for a breakout season.
- Despite setbacks, Penny remained dedicated to his recovery, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Retirement Announcement and Reactions
Penny announced his retirement from the NFL in early September 2023. His announcement was met with mixed emotions from fans, teammates, and sports analysts. Many celebrated his contributions while reflecting on his potential that was curtailed by injuries. Social media platforms lit up with tributes to Penny’s career:
- A heartfelt post from his former teammates commending his work ethic.
- Fans sharing memorable highlights from his games.
- Analysts discussing what could have been had he remained injury-free.
Career Statistics
| Season | Team | Games Played | Rushing Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Seattle Seahawks | 14 | 419 | 2 |
| 2019 | Seattle Seahawks | 10 | 370 | 1 |
| 2020 | Seattle Seahawks | 3 | 162 | 0 |
| 2021 | Seattle Seahawks | 10 | 749 | 3 |
| 2022 | Philadelphia Eagles | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Post-Retirement Plans
As Rashaad Penny transitions into retirement, many fans are curious about his future endeavors. Although he has yet to announce specific plans, here are some potential paths he could explore:
- Coaching: With his extensive knowledge of the game, Penny may choose to mentor young athletes.
- Media Career: His experience in the NFL could translate well into sports commentary or analysis.
- Philanthropy: Penny could utilize his platform to give back to communities in need.
Insights from Rashaad Penny
Throughout his career, Penny faced various challenges and triumphs. Here are some insights and lessons learned from his journey:
- Resilience is Key: Overcoming injuries taught Penny the importance of mental fortitude in sports and life.
- Teamwork Matters: The bonds formed with teammates can provide invaluable support during tough times.
- Passion for the Game: Love for football remained a driving force, motivating him through adversity.
Conclusion: A Legacy to Remember
Rashaad Penny’s retirement marks the end of an era for an athlete who inspired many. His journey, filled with both highs and lows, exemplifies the dedication and perseverance required in professional sports. As fans look back on his career, the memories of his electrifying plays and determination will undoubtedly remain.
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