New York Jets receiver Corey Davis, 28, announces retirement: 'Decision has not been easy'

New York Jets receiver Corey Davis announced his retirement from football on Wednesday.

"This decision has not been easy," Davis wrote on Instagram. "I’ve been searching my heart for what to do and I feel that stepping away from the game is the best path for me at this time."

Davis, 28, was drafted out of Western Michigan University with the fifth overall pick of the 2017 NFL draft by the Tennessee Titans. He signed a 3 year, $37.5 million contract with the Jets in March 2021 and was set to make $12.5 million this year before his retirement.

"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," Davis continued. "I am truly grateful for all the opportunities I have had and will continue to have on my journey."

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Davis said he's been contemplating retirement "for some time now." He ended his announcement by expressing gratitude: "Thank you to my family and friends and the Jets organization for supporting me through this process."

In two seasons with the Jets, Davis recorded 66 receptions for 1028 yards and 6 touchdowns in 22 games (19 starts). His best effort in green and white came on Oct. 3, 2021 against his former team, where he racked up four receptions for 111 yards and a touchdown in the Jets' 27-24 win over the Titans.

Jets head coach Robert Saleh called Davis a "true competitor."

"It was a pleasure to coach a player like Corey Davis," Saleh said in a statement Wednesday. He "was a tremendously positive influence in the locker room. We are grateful to Corey for all the hard work and dedication he put into this team, and we wish him all the best in the future."

In his first four seasons with the Titans, Davis compiled 207 receptions for 2,851 yards and 11 touchdowns in 56 games (48 starts). Throughout his entire NFL career, Davis recorded 273 receptions for 3879 yards and 17 touchdowns in 78 career games (67 starts).

Davis' retirement comes as the Jets added several key pieces to their offense for the upcoming season, including veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, running back Dalvin Cook and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett.

Earlier this month during training camp, David spoke abut Rodgers' presence around the team: "How he says the plays, to how he goes about his work, his work ethic, his approach. You know, it's everything. He's real chill and real confident, but it's urgent at the same time, which is what we need."