While Giovani Bernard played sparingly for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last season, the 31-year-old veteran running back was still potentially an option for teams looking for help in their backfield. Bernard removed all doubt there Friday, though, officially announcing his retirement. And he did so with an announcement on social media, a decade after he officially entered the league.
“10 years ago, I came into this league grateful. Grateful for what God has done for me to get to that moment and to celebrate all the obstacles that were overcome. And now fast forward 10 years, I leave humbled. Humbled by the experiences, relationships, and memories that have shaped me during this time. I’ve had the privilege of crossing paths with exceptional men and women, including my brothers on the field, coaches who’ve taught me so much, and front office/staff who worked behind the scenes to make it all seamless. I offer my deepest thanks to you all.
“You’ve allowed me and my family to be a part of something truly special. We are forever grateful and feel truly blessed that this was part of our journey. As I look forward, I’m excited for the newness ahead. New challenges to face and new adventures to take. What a ride it’s been, but what a ride is to come. Thankful for you all. Much love!”
Bernard played for the Cincinnati Bengals from 2013-2020. The Bengals selected Bernard in the second round (37th overall) in the 2013 NFL Draft and he later earned a PFWA All-Rookie Team selection. During his time in Cincinnati, Bernard provided a steady hand in the Bengals’ backfield, serving as the perfect complimentary back and dynamic pass-catcher for nearly a decade.
After Cincinnati released him in the spring of 2021, Bernard would sign with the Buccaneers for the 2021 season. He then re-signed with Tampa Bay for the 2022 season, but he suffered an ankle injury in Week 2 and was unable to provide much of a contribution. So his time with the Bengals remains by far the most notable part of his NFL career, and perhaps he may have a spot in the franchise’s Ring of Honor.
About Sam Neumann
Since the beginning of 2023, Sam has been a staff writer for Awful Announcing and The Comeback. A 2021 graduate of Temple University, Sam is a Charlotte native, who currently calls Greenville, South Carolina his home. He also has a love/hate relationship with the New York Mets and Jets.