David Johnson’s Sudden Retirement: A Look Back at the Cardinals’ Star Running Back
As the NFL world continues to grapple with the sudden retirement of David Johnson, fans and analysts alike are left wondering what could have been. The former All-Pro running back, who spent eight seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, announced his decision to hang up his cleats on Instagram, leaving many to ponder the what-ifs.
A Rookie Sensation
Drafted by the Cardinals in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft, Johnson burst onto the scene as a rookie sensation. In his inaugural season, he racked up an impressive 1,038 yards from scrimmage and scored 12 total touchdowns, earning him a spot as a finalist for Offensive Rookie of the Year.
David Johnson’s impressive rookie season
The following year, Johnson led the league with 373 touches, 2,118 yards from scrimmage, and 20 scores, earning him first-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl bid. His impressive dual-threat abilities made him a fantasy darling, and his unique combination of size and speed allowed him to run through and glide past opposing defenses.
A Cardinals Legend
Johnson’s 1,239 rushing yards in 2016 remain the most in Cardinals history since Ottis Anderson’s string of 1,200-plus yard campaigns in the early 1980s. His impressive performance earned him third place in Offensive Player of the Year voting, behind Matt Ryan and Aaron Rodgers.
David Johnson’s iconic Cardinals jersey
As the news of Johnson’s retirement spreads, fans and teammates alike are taking to social media to pay tribute to the talented running back. While his decision may come as a shock, it’s clear that Johnson’s legacy will live on in the hearts of Cardinals fans everywhere.
“I don’t know exactly what that will be,” Johnson said in his Instagram post, “but I hope it will bring me the same passion, excitement, and love as football did!”
As we bid farewell to David Johnson’s illustrious NFL career, we can’t help but wonder what the future holds for this talented athlete. One thing is certain, however: his impact on the game will be felt for years to come.
David Johnson’s impressive career
