Running Back Arian Foster Announces NFL Retirement

“This game has been everything to me… my therapy, my joy, my solace, and my enemy,” Foster wrote via Uninterrupted.com. “I’ve learned love every facet of this game, from peak of accomplishment to the gutter of criticism. And it all makes the ride worthwhile. I’ve been fortunate enough to play many successful years in this league. I’ve given a lot to this game and given up a lot for it. But it has returned to me more than I could have ever asked for.”

Foster was the starter for his final three seasons at the University of Tennessee. Quickly, Foster’s name spread like wildfire and he became their all-time leading rusher. He was signed by the Houston Texans after going un-drafted in the 2009 NFL Draft. After spending seven seasons with the team, Foster eventually became the Texans all-time leading rusher with 6,472 yards and 54 rushing touchdowns. After being released by the Texans early in the 2016 off-season, he signed a one-year contract with the Miami Dolphins just a few short months later.

Foster had missed time in his collegiate and professional career due to injuries. In 2013, he injured his back despite playing the first half of the regular season’s games. He made a rather impressive comeback campaign the following season, compiling a total of 1,573 yards and 13 touchdowns. In 2015, Foster went down once again with a torn Achilles tendon, ultimately ending his season. He was released at the conclusion of the season.

After Foster signed with the Dolphins, many expected yet another comeback season but that dream quickly ended after he suffered a groin injury, only playing two of the seven games of the season. According to Foster, his history of injuries played a significant factor in his retirement from the league.

The 30-year old retires with a grand total of 8,873 yards and 68 touchdowns.