Former New Orleans Saints RB, Arizona Cardinals All-Pro Fan Favorite Retires At 32

Per a post on his Instagram on Sunday, David Johnson announced his retirement from the league. He thanked the Cardinals for drafting him:

Who would have thought this kid would be the first pro athlete to come out of small town Clinton, IA. Chasing a dream when all but 2 D1AA college coaches thought I was good enough for a scholarship. I am blessed and very appreciative of the Cardinals drafting me in the 3rd round and I started my NFL career hitting the ground running (literally)! 2 games in, getting my uniform and cleats put in the Pro football Hall of Fame in Canton.

David Johnson played with the Arizona Cardinals from 2015-2019

Johnson played with the Cardinals through the 2019 season. He spent two seasons with the Houston Texans before signing with the Saints for the 2022 season. Johnson wrote he’d miss the locker room experience:

“There’s been highs and lows, but I’ve felt very fortunate and honored by the people who’ve supported me along this journey. The relationships and brotherhoods I’ve formed with so many of my dawgs will never be forgotten. I’m going to miss the locker room, dining hall, and before meeting vibes. Guys from different backgrounds, ethnicities, struggles, and countries just talking about all aspects of life………..and of course joking around.

When it’s all said and done, I really hope I impacted at least 1 person on and off the field in a positive way. I hope I was able to pay it forward, from the countless people who guided and taught me the right way to go about business, and giving back with integrity and a humble demeanor! And to the numerous coaches who sharpened my skills in playing this sport. I am forever grateful of you, truly!”

Johnson earned All-Pro honors for the 2016 season

Johnson’s coaches in Arizona utilized his skillset to great success in 2016, when he made the Pro Bowl and earned All-Pro honors. Johnson ran for 1,239 yards and recorded 879 receiving yards for the 2016 season. He scored 20 offensive touchdowns.

Johnson finished his career with 4,071 yards rushing and 2,803 yards receiving. He scored 57 offensive touchdowns.

Johnson ended his message on Instagram by thanking God for his career:

Lastly, I would not have been able to do any of this without Gods good grace! He did it all so a kid who didn’t have much, was given a chance to do what most can’t. I’m looking forward to my next career path in life. I don’t know exactly what that will be, but I hope it will bring me the same passion, excitement, and love as football did!