HBCU running back remains immune in post-injury NFL rebirth initiative

Ian Wheeler’s positivity has in fact been a silent superpower that assisted the Howard College graduate and Chicago Bears running back choose toughness over loss.

When a torn ACL finished his duration before it also started, Wheeler can have crumbled under the weight of discontentment. He had in fact made the Bears’ last schedule. His youth years desire was real.

“It was bittersweet,” Wheeler claimed, examining his beginner duration invested in damaged obtain. “You strive and often stuff does not go your means. But being positioned on IR turned out to be a true blessing. It provided me a possibility to reduce, learn the video game much better, concentrate on my rehabilitation and end up being the best variation of myself for this coming period.”

Wheeler’s story is boosted above athleticism. He began playing football at 7 years of ages and well balanced academics and sports throughout college. He additionally delayed clinical institution to pursue the NFL desire– a wager that numerous would absolutely not attempt take.

Prior to the injury, Wheeler made a long-term influence: 12 lugs, 52 grass and 2 goals throughout 3 preseason video games– containing a break out efficiency versus Buffalo that changed heads. His underdog journey came to be a fan favorite on “Hard Knocks,” reverberating with target markets throughout the nation.

Rookie RB Ian Wheeler’s mom was right there for her child when he obtained the info that he tore his ACL. ❤ #HardKnocks with the @ChicagoBears conveniently offered presently on @StreamOnMax pic.twitter.com/dOQfdsNoWN

— NFL (@NFL) August 28, 2024

At Howard, Wheeler rushed for 1, 139 yards and 13 objectives over his last 3 periods, balanced 6 54 backyards per lug, captured 23 masquerade 234 grass and returned a program-best 3 firsts for objectives.

“I recognize exactly how hard this course is,” Wheeler specified. “Numerous youngsters play high school football. 10s of thousands play in university. Just a few ever make it to the NFL. Simply entering an NFL structure is a blessing. Coming from a smaller school and making an influence advises individuals that good football is good football. Nothing is ensured– and that is what makes every minute unique.”

Review the rest of the article at hubison.com.