Tarik Cohen tells Jets he is retiring from NFL
Running back/kick returner Tarik Cohen led the NFL with 411 punt return yards in 2018. Credit: Ed Murray
Tarik Cohen informed the Jets on Thursday that he is retiring from the NFL.
The Jets placed Cohen on the reserve/retired list.
Cohen, a former All-Pro returner, was attempting to resurrect his career with the Jets after injuries derailed it. Cohen, 29, hadn’t played an NFL game since 2020.
He suffered a torn ACL as a member of the Bears in 2020, tore his Achilles tendon two years later during a livestream work out and injured his hamstring last season while he was on the Carolina Panthers’ practice squad.
On Tuesday, Cohen spoke about his journey back to the NFL. He gained 20 pounds after the Achilles injury and lost most of it to attempt the comeback. Cohen had a chance to make the Jets as a returner, especially with the new kickoff rules that should lead to some big returns.
The 5-6 Cohen was an explosive playmaker before his injuries. He rushed for 1,101 yards and five touchdowns and caught 209 passes for 1,575 yards and nine scores in 51 games with Chicago. Cohen also compiled 1,613 yards and one score as a returner. He led the NFL with 411 punt return yards in 2018.
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.
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