The Carolina Panthers announced that running back Rashaad Penny has decided to retire after six seasons in the NFL. Penny, who was placed on the reserve/retired list, cited not feeling like himself as the reason for his retirement. Panthers head coach Dave Canales expressed his respect for Penny’s decision, acknowledging the challenges of wanting your body to perform at its best but not being able to achieve that.
Penny, originally drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2018, had a career marked by injuries but showed flashes of his potential, especially during the 2021 season when he rushed for 749 yards and six touchdowns in 10 games. Despite the setbacks, Penny maintained confidence in his abilities, believing that when healthy, he could compete at the highest level among running backs in the league.
After a brief stint with the Philadelphia Eagles last year, where his playing time was limited, Penny decided to step away from the game. Throughout his NFL career, Penny accumulated nearly 2,000 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, showcasing his talent with an impressive average of 5.6 yards per carry. His contributions on the field will be remembered as he transitions into retirement.
With Penny’s retirement, the Panthers’ running back competition will continue with a mix of young talent and experienced players vying for playing time. Chuba Hubbard, rookie Jonathon Brooks, Miles Sanders, and Raheem Blackshear will look to make their mark and fill the void left by Penny’s departure. The team’s coaching staff will assess their options as they prepare for the upcoming season, aiming to establish a solid running game to support the offense.
As Penny embarks on the next chapter of his life post-football, his impact on the teams he played for and the fans who supported him will be remembered. His determination to overcome challenges and showcase his skills on the field serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and highlights the resilience required to succeed in a competitive sport like the NFL. We wish Rashaad Penny all the best in his future endeavors beyond football.