Danny Woodhead is hanging up his cleats.
The former New York Jets, New England Patriots, San Diego Chargers and Baltimore Ravens running back announced his retirement Friday night in a lengthy Instagram post. The Ravens released Woodhead on March 13 after one injury-filled season, and he reportedly drew interest from multiple teams, including the Patriots. But after nine effective seasons, the 5-foot-9 back is calling it quits.
Here’s an excerpt from the message he shared on Instagram:
“10 years! Wow, God had crazy plans for a small little kid from North Platte, NE!” Woodhead wrote. “It’s been a wild ride and feel so blessed He allowed me to do what I loved for so long. But now it’s time to say goodbye to the game I love. First, I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Without Him my career wouldn’t have been possible. He blessed me with the gifts and He paved the way. All I had to do was follow His plans for my life, and His plans were crazy awesome!
” … Thank you Jets, Patriots, Chargers, and Ravens! Thanks to all my head coaches (Bob Zohner, Brad Smith, Bill O’Boyle, Eric Mangini, Rex Ryan, Bill Belichick, Mike McCoy, and John Harbaugh) who believed in me! To my rbs coaches (coach skiles, coach reiners, Jimmy Raye, A Lynn, Ivan, Ollie, Ridge, and Thomas) thanks for putting up with me. Thanks to all my teammates from high school till now. Without you guys I never would’ve become who I was as a player.”
Woodhead concluded: “And how could i forget all my fans?! You’re the best and have always felt the love and support! I’m sure I’ve forgotten a few but know that I’m thankful for everything everyone has done on my journey.”
Well said.
Woodhead’s most productive season came in 2015 with the Chargers, when he led all NFL backs with 755 receiving yards and totaled 1,091 yards from scrimmage. His lone Super Bowl appearance came in 2011 with the Patriots, who fell to the New York Giants.
A graduate of Chadron State, Woodhead held the NCAA’s all-time, all-division rushing record (7,962) until 2008.
