Former Bears Speedster Tarik Cohen Retires from Football

Despite recent endeavors to revive his career with the New York Jets and a stint with the Carolina Panthers, the toll of injuries including a devastating ACL tear in 2020 and a later Achilles tendon injury proved insurmountable.

Selected in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Bears, Cohen rapidly became known as an electrifying playmaker. Over 51 career games, he amassed 1,101 rushing yards, 1,575 receiving yards, and was notably impactful as a punt returner. Cohen's agility and speed made him a standout performer, culminating in his selection as an All-Pro and Pro Bowl punt returner in 2018.

Jets head coach Robert Saleh previously expressed excitement at Cohen's signing, viewing him as an "explosive playmaker" who was nearing full health. However, Cohen's career faced repeated setbacks due to injuries, leading to his decision to retire. The NFL's new rules on kickoff returns, intended to increase safety, underscore the impact Cohen had in this aspect of the game.

Cohen’s narrative is one of resilience and brilliance on the field. Even as Bears fans reflect on what could have been without his injuries, they also celebrate the moments of magic he provided. From his remarkable punt returns to his ability to turn a simple screen pass into a highlight-reel touchdown, Cohen's career, though shorter than many hoped, was marked by flashes of brilliance that few could match.