After being drafted by the Tennessee Titans with the No. 5 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, wide receiver Corey Davis struggled in his rookie season due to constant injuries. Following four years with the Titans, he joined the New York Jets in free agency in March 2021 anticipated by many to become the No. 1 star in a young WR group, albeit this never happened.
Corey’s three-year deal with the Jets worth $37.5 million, including $27 million in guaranteed money, and his due $10.5 million this year with no guaranteed money, opened the option for the franchise to either trade or cut him this offseason. However, the footballer himself decided to opt out just a few days before the regular season.
Jets star Corey Davis shocks team by walking away
According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport’s Wednesday report, Davis informed the Jets team about his decision to step away from the football field, per sources informed of the situation. The 28-year-old later made a prolonged Instagram post to convey the announcement saying he made the decision to have more quality time with his family.
“For some time now I’ve been contemplating stepping away from the sport of football. This decision has not been easy… I feel that stepping away from the game is the best path for me at 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.”
With New York’s recent roster additions of Allen Lazard, Mecole Hardman, and Randall Cobb, the Western Michigan product’s potential in the offense was uncertain, but he thanked the team for supporting him.
“I am truly grateful for all the opportunities I have had and will continue to have on my journey. Thank you to my family and friends and the Jets organization for supporting me through this process.”
The veteran recorded 32 catches for 536 yards and two touchdowns throughout 13 games while starting 10 games in 2022. He had been a starter in 67 games out of the 78 career games he played for the Titans and Jets.
Who is the Jets number 1 wide receiver?
After getting selected with the 10th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Garrett Wilson quickly established himself as the No. 1 wide receiver for the Jets by recording 106 receptions and 1,447 receiving yards along with seven touchdowns in the 2022 season, earning him the Offensive Rookie of the Year title.
Besides the Ohio State product, Gang Green has 6’5” and 227-pound giant Allen Lazard as another potential starter, and his experience of playing with the franchise’s new quarterback Aaron Rodgers for five years in Green Bay Packers is also considered a plus point for him.
Despite being involved in a cut rumor, the 6’3” and 209-pounder Davis could have grabbed the WR1 spot in the Big Apple as he holds immense potential both as a receiver and blocker, albeit his recent poor performance and prolonged injury history didn’t let him enjoy the opportunity. He missed a total of 12 games and played only 22 games in the last campaign.
What’s your take on Corey’s sudden decision to step away from the football field? You can share your thoughts with us in the comments.
