Jets WR Corey Davis “walks away” from the NFL at the age of 28

Florham Park, New Jersey — New York Jets wide receiver Corey Davis, who has been excused from team activities for the past 10 days, announced Wednesday that he is “taking a step away” from football.

Davis, 28, an expensive free agent addition in 2021, He released a statement via his Instagram accountHe said he had been thinking about the decision “for some time”. He did not use the word “retirement” or give a reason for withdrawing.

Davis, who voluntarily skipped the portion of the offseason program, was scheduled to receive an unsecured $10.5 million in the final year of his contract. With the additions of Alain Lazard, Mikol Hardman and Randall Cobb out for the season, Davis’ role in attack was uncertain.

“For some time now, I’ve been thinking about getting away from the sport of football,” Davis said. “This decision was not easy. Although I am a deep person, I am a man of few words. I have been searching in my heart what I should do and I feel that stepping away from the game is the best path for me.” this time.

“I have more blessings than I could have ever imagined. I have an amazing family, a beautiful wife, and two healthy children that I look forward to spending more time with. I am truly and always will be grateful for all the opportunities I have had.” “Continue with my journey. Thank you to my family, my friend and the Jets organization for supporting me through this process.”

Davis played 17 snaps in the second preseason game on August 12 at the Carolina Panthers. He was subsequently excused by the team for what he described as a “personal” reason.

A source said Davis told his teammates several weeks ago, long before training camp, that he was considering the decision.

Earlier on Wednesday, coach Robert Saleh was vague when asked about Davis’ status, refusing to say if he would return before the season opener. Saleh said Davis would be excused “however long it takes”. The Jets issued statements from Saleh, general manager Joe Douglas and owner Woody Johnson, all of whom thanked him for his professionalism.

Saleh said, speaking to reporters after the announcement, that the organization knew that Davis was thinking about his future during his absence from the team.

“We were aware of the matter and we are just trying to support him and his family and whatever decision they decide to take,” Saleh said. Selfishly, obviously we would love him to play. He’s an incredible guy, he’s an incredible player.

“At the same time, he’s also an amazing father, husband, and friend. Excited for him on this new journey.” [we] I always want him to know he always has family here.”

Asked if Davis would be welcome, Saleh said: “The door is always open if young people want to play football.”

Douglas described Davis as “a true professional on and off the field. He was a great example to our young players of how we can come to work every day and have a full, consistent work day.”

The depth of the aircraft wide receiver can be tested. About an hour before the announcement, Lazard left training for an unknown reason. After the Jets traded Denzel Mims (6-foot-3) and lost Davis (6-3), Lazard (6-5) is the only experienced receiver over 6-foot-3. The top four spots on the list are set with Wilson, Lazard, Cope and Hardman, but there is a dip after them.

Alex Ericsson, a seven-year veteran with 96 receptions and ample experience as a kickoff and kickoff returner, could be next. In fact, he’s got training on Wednesdays with the rookies. He has impressed undesigned rookies Jason Brownlee and Xavier Gibson on occasion.

Largely due to injuries, Davis did not honor his contract with the Jets. In 2021, he signed a three-year contract worth $37.5 million. He missed eight games in 2021 due to a groin injury that eventually required surgery. And in 2022, he missed four games due to a sprained knee.

In two seasons, he managed just 66 receptions for 1,028 yards and six touchdowns.

The Tennessee Titans drafted Davis fifth overall in 2017. He played four years at Tennessee, and produced his best numbers in 2020 — 65 catches, 984 yards, and five touchdowns.