Former Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice has thanked the city but also apologised to the people after he confirmed that he would be leaving to move to New York.

Rice is eyeing a potential return to the NFL as he is eligible for reinstatement but has yet to sign with, or even work out for, any team in the league.

"From the bottom of my heart, I thank you all for the love and support you've shown my family and I throughout my football career," Rice penned in an open letter.

"To all the kids who looked up to me, I'm truly sorry for letting you down, but I hope it's helped you learn that one bad decision can turn your dream into a nightmare."

Rice added that he was proud to say that he had played for the Ravens over the last seven years, but the 28-year-old will now hope to find a new team.