For the second year in a row, the NY Jets have had one of their players retire during training camp. Last year it was wide receiver Corey Davis, and this year it’s veteran running back and return man Tarik Cohen.

Cohen signed with the Jets in May as the 29-year-old was attempting one of the more improbable returns in recent NFL memory. Cohen hadn’t appeared in an NFL game in four years following multiple major injuries, including a torn ACL and torn Achilles.

The former Chicago Bears standout was making waves this summer for the Jets and seemed to have a good chance to make the 53-man roster as a depth running back and return specialist.

The Jets were giving Cohen every opportunity to earn a roster spot given the emphasis placed on the NFL’s new kickoff rules. Cohen showed flashes of his old self and outplayed some of the other running backs on the roster. His sudden retirement comes as a significant surprise.

Cohen spoke to reporters following Jets’ practice on Wednesday and showed no inclination that he was considering stepping away from the game. If anything, he came across as someone who finally felt healthy and was motivated for the upcoming season.

“I definitely feel all the way back. I’m just trying to show the Jets the explosiveness that I have, the smartness that I’ve gained from being in the league, and lift as I rise — help all the guys in my position group.”

– Tarik Cohen
Despite insisting that he felt “all the way back” less than 24 hours ago, Cohen has decided to call it quits on a career that has been marred by injuries and off-field tragedies.

His story is one of heartbreak but also perseverance. I highly encourage anyone who hasn’t already to check out the story he wrote for The Players’ Tribune a couple of years ago. It’s one of the most profound and heartbreaking stories you’ll ever read, but it’s well worth your time.

As for the Jets, this bodes well for Israel Abanikanda’s chances of making the Jets’ roster. The second-year running back seemed to be on the outside looking in, but if the Jets choose to carry a fourth running back behind Breece Hall, Braelon Allen, and Isaiah Davis, he seems like the obvious option now.

That also means more reps as a returner for the likes of Xavier Gipson (when he returns from injury), Malachi Corley, and a host of undrafted rookies vying for a roster spot. Cohen’s absence does open the door for other players.

We wish Tarik Cohen the absolute best in his retirement. This is a man who deserves all the happiness in the world given everything he’s been through, both on and off the field. I hope he is at peace with his decision.