Under Mike McDaniel, the Miami Dolphins became known for their speed on offense. When the conditions were right, and the Dolphins’ offense was on the same page, the team became a weekly highlight-reel due to their explosive plays.
In particular, the 2023 Dolphins featured the six fastest ball carriers in the NFL. Three belonged to superstar wide receiver Tyreek Hill, two to Pro Bowl running back De’Von Achane and one to Pro Bowl running back Raheem Mostert. The list did not include receiver Jaylen Waddle, who is also among the fastest players in the NFL.
Unfortunately, speed did not result in the Dolphins having any postseason success. That is nothing new to the Dolphins as prior to the Mike McDaniel era, the Dolphins had another speedster who failed to have much success as a receiver. However, he was one of the Dolphins’ top returners, and after injuries derailed his career, he announced his retirement.
Former Miami Dolphins Player Announces Retirement
Former Dolphins wide receiver Jakeem Grant announced his retirement via Instagram. In his retirement post, Grant wrote, “Today, I close a chapter with gratitude in my heart. Football gave me purpose, and every moment was a blessing. Thank you to everyone who was part of this journey. Here’s to the next adventure.”
Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle replied to the post saying, “Legendary Brudda !!” Additionally, former Dolphins Pro Bowl receiver Jarvis Landry replied, “Love ya bro. Congratulations.”
Grant was drafted in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, and then spent the next six years with the Dolphins. His best season in Miami came in 2020 when he totaled 373 receiving yards. However, his skill set that relied primarily on his speed was best served in the return game, as he scored five return touchdowns in his Dolphins career, which earned him a second-team All-Pro nod in 2020.
After the Dolphins drafted Jaylen Waddle in 2021, Grant’s role on the Dolphins was reduced and he was traded during the season to the Chicago Bears.
Jakeem Grant’s Injuries
Despite having success with the Bears that season and earning a Pro Bowl and another second-team All-Pro selection, injuries would then derail his career. After his strong seasons as a returner, Grant signed a three-year contract that was worth up to $13.3 million.
Before the start of the 2022 season, Grant suffered an Achilles tear and was ruled out for the season. He would then return for the 2023 season, but suffered another season-ending injury, this time in the Browns’ final preseason game. He was eventually released, earning less than half of what he could have made on his Cleveland contract.
Grant ended his career with a brief stint on the Falcons practice squad, but he would then be once again placed on injured reserve.
Grant’s career finished with a total of 1,140 receiving yards, seven receiving touchdowns, six touchdowns as a returner, and one rushing touchdown. 70 of his 81 NFL games occurred as a member of the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins issued a post wishing Grant congratulations on his retirement.
Former Dolphins All-Pro Receiver Announces Retirement