By admin 
Myles Gaskin, a former seventh-round draft pick who carved out a seven-season career as a running back in the National Football League, announced his retirement from professional football on Thursday at the age of 29. The announcement came via a heartfelt social media post, where Gaskin expressed his profound gratitude for the game and his intention to pass on his accumulated wisdom to the next generation of aspiring athletes.
"Football…there will never be enough words to explain how I feel about you, so I won’t even try," Gaskin wrote in his poignant social media message. "What I will do is give all the game you gave me to the next generation of young players who dare to be great. Thank you. It’s been real." The emotional declaration signifies the end of a journey that began with humble beginnings as a late-round selection and evolved into a respected NFL career.
Gaskin’s final NFL appearance came during the Seattle Seahawks’ triumphant 2025 Super Bowl-winning campaign. Though his on-field participation was limited to just one game, he saw action on offense for three snaps, carrying the ball three times for a total of six yards, and contributed five snaps on special teams. This final chapter, culminating in a championship, provided a fitting, albeit brief, conclusion to his playing days.
Before entering the professional ranks, Gaskin established himself as a standout collegiate athlete at the University of Washington, remaining in his home state of Washington. His impact was immediate and historic. In 2015, as a true freshman, he shattered school records by becoming the first running back in program history to surpass the 1,000-yard rushing mark in a single season, amassing an impressive 1,302 yards on 227 carries. This early success foreshadowed a promising future and highlighted his potential as a dynamic playmaker. His collegiate career at Washington saw him accumulate significant yardage and touchdowns, solidifying his reputation as a formidable running back.
The Miami Dolphins recognized Gaskin’s potential and selected him with the 234th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Over four seasons with the Dolphins, he steadily worked his way up the team’s depth chart, eventually earning a starting role. During his tenure in Miami, Gaskin proved to be a versatile weapon, particularly in a running back-by-committee system. His most productive season statistically came in 2021, where he showcased his all-around ability. He rushed for 612 yards on 173 carries, scoring three rushing touchdowns. In addition to his ground game contributions, he was a significant threat in the passing game, hauling in 49 receptions for 234 yards and four receiving touchdowns. This dual-threat capability made him a valuable asset for the Dolphins’ offense.
Following his impactful run with the Dolphins, Gaskin signed a one-year contract extension in 2023. However, he was ultimately a roster cut before the start of the regular season, marking the beginning of a period of movement across the league. He was quickly signed by the Minnesota Vikings, where he spent time on their practice squad before being elevated to the active roster. He saw action on special teams in Week 2 of that season. Later in the same season, the Los Angeles Rams signed Gaskin off the Vikings’ practice squad, where he played in one game in Week 8 before being waived shortly thereafter.
Gaskin’s journey continued with subsequent stints that demonstrated his persistent drive to compete. He returned to the Vikings at one point and also worked with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2024. In 2025, he joined the Baltimore Ravens before finding his way to the Seattle Seahawks in October of that year. It was with the Seahawks that he achieved his ultimate professional goal: a Super Bowl victory, which took place in Santa Clara. This championship provided a memorable culmination to his NFL career, allowing him to depart the game on a high note.
Throughout his seven-season NFL career, Myles Gaskin accumulated 1,360 rushing yards and added 102 receptions for 712 receiving yards. He found the end zone a total of 13 times in his career, with 8 rushing touchdowns and 5 receiving touchdowns, showcasing his contributions as both a runner and a receiver. His career statistics reflect a player who consistently contributed to his teams in various capacities, often exceeding expectations for a seventh-round selection.
The decision to retire at 29, while perhaps seeming early to some, is a common juncture for many NFL players, especially those who have faced the physical demands of the game for an extended period. The average career length for an NFL running back is notoriously short due to the high-impact nature of the position. Gaskin’s seven seasons represent a significant tenure, and his choice to step away now allows him to do so on his own terms, likely prioritizing his long-term health and well-being.
Gaskin’s farewell message underscores a growing trend among veteran athletes: a desire to transition into mentorship and share their experiences. His commitment to "give all the game you gave me to the next generation" suggests a potential future in coaching, player development, or a similar role where he can positively influence young athletes. This altruistic outlook speaks volumes about his character and his appreciation for the opportunities football has afforded him.
The NFL landscape is constantly evolving, with new talent emerging each year. Gaskin’s retirement opens up a roster spot for a new player and marks the end of an era for the teams he represented. His journey from a relatively unknown seventh-round pick to a Super Bowl champion and a respected veteran is an inspiring narrative that will likely resonate with aspiring football players for years to come.
As Gaskin embarks on this new chapter, his contributions to the Dolphins, Vikings, Rams, Jaguars, Ravens, and Seahawks will be remembered. His ability to overcome draft-day doubts, carve out a starting role, and ultimately achieve the pinnacle of professional football success is a testament to his resilience, dedication, and passion for the game. His retirement is not just an end, but a transition, allowing him to continue impacting the sport he loves in new and meaningful ways. The NFL community wishes Myles Gaskin the very best in his future endeavors.
