Some players who make it to the Super Bowl are commonly considered as superheroes.
However, the overwhelming majority of them have been through major difficulties that have weakened their spirit.
The context allows for reflection on the challenges overcome when players compete in the ultimate match of their discipline. However, the players lent themselves to the game with pleasure.
A chord was struck in Jerick McKinnon, the running back for the Chiefs. After all, he was unable to play for 2018 and 2019 due to a ligament tear in his right knee.
“It was really hard, but I kept working. Some days, after the second operation, I didn’t even know if I was going to be able to do it again.” McKinnon said.
“I had to fight, to hang on. My family and loved ones have been such a huge help especially as I have long been unable to walk,” McKinnon added.
That winding road eventually led 30-year-old McKinnon to the Super Bowl and he would serve as one of the Chiefs’ captains.
“It’s quite an honour, it was voted on by my teammates. It gives an idea of my leadership and my energy, it constitutes a great accomplishment in my career,” McKinnon said.
On the Philadelphia Eagles side, linebacker Christian Elliss came close to dropping football during his college career.
“I came very close to dropping everything. I didn’t have a very good relationship with my coach, I found that he constantly ruined my morale.” Elliss said.
“I wondered if I really wanted to pursue this career. In my eyes, football is only a small part of my life,” Elliss added
Since joining the Eagles in 2021, Elliss has been inspired by veteran TJ Edwards.
