In 2018, the Seattle Seahawks selected Rashaad Penny in the first round, but after six seasons in the NFL, the running back has decided to retire.
The 28-year-old surprised many by announcing his departure from the sport on Tuesday, coinciding with the Carolina Panthers placing him on the reserve/retired list earlier that day.
Throughout his career, Penny dealt with various injuries but still accumulated 1,951 rushing yards during his five years with the Seahawks and his single season with the Philadelphia Eagles.
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Rashaad Penny #20 of the Seattle Seahawks warms up before playing the Denver Broncos at Lumen Field on September 12, 2022 in Seattle, Washington. (Jane Gershovich/Getty Images)
Dave Canales is starting his first season as head coach of the Panthers, and several of his years on the Seahawks’ coaching staff coincided with Penny’s tenure there.
“I’ve seen Rashaad at his best,” Canales commented. “It was an exciting opportunity to help him regain that form.”
“When we spoke, he just felt off. I had to respect his feelings moving forward. I can’t fathom what that feels like — to have a vision of how you want to perform and for your body not to comply.”
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Despite participating in only ten games in 2021, Penny achieved the most successful season of his career, rushing for nearly 750 yards and finding the end zone six times.
Rashaad Penny #23 of the Philadelphia Eagles in action against the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field on November 5, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
The following season, his performance was overshadowed by an injury that resulted in a broken fibula in Week 5.
Penny signed a one-year contract with the Eagles last March but appeared in only three games, finishing with 33 yards on 11 carries.
Rashaad Penny #20 of the Seattle Seahawks warms up before the preseason game against the Chicago Bears at Lumen Field on August 18, 2022 in Seattle, Washington. (Jane Gershovich/Getty Images)
This past May, he joined the Panthers.
Only a week ago, Penny shared his confidence in his football abilities.
“I’ve always had faith in myself and my capabilities,” Penny remarked to the Charlotte Observer. “I believe everyone recognizes that when I’m healthy, I’m potentially among the top running backs in the league. I understand my role and what I can achieve, so I continuously strive to improve.”
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The Panthers maintain good depth in their running back lineup with Chuba Hubbard, Miles Sanders, and rookie Jonathan Brooks currently on the roster.
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