Darryl Blackstock could have walked away from the game he has loved since he was a kid. After several seasons of starting as a linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals and the Cincinnati Bengals, Blackstock found himself without an NFL team for two years.
Instead of walking away from the game of football at 26, Blackstone decided to sign with a UFL football team to remain in shape. In 2011, the Oakland Raiders saw the need for a fierce linebacker and decided to sign Blackstone. His keen sense of defense played a pivotal role in the Raiders’ success.
Blackstone recently talked about his NFL comeback with rolling out. –amir shaw
After playing in the NFL for four years, how did you cope with not being a part of a team?
I continued to train and prepared for another opportunity to get back in the NFL. It’s hard to take when you’re let go from a team. I knew my career was not over though, and I decided I was going to do whatever it took to get back in the NFL. I played for the UFL [Virginia Destroyers] to stay in good shape.
How did you make a comeback?
I had to really remain positive and know that God would bring another opportunity to me. In the meantime, I stayed prepared through rigorous training and mental preparation for the next opportunity to come. Training is a vital part of any athlete’s career. So for me, I knew no matter what that it had to remain a part of my every day life.
Why is it important for NFL players to prepare for life after football?
It is important because football is a short part of your life. It is not who you are, it’s what you do. I am always an advocate for players taking advantage of NFL programs like internships and college courses through the league. It’s a great way to become prepared for the next journey after football.
What advice do you have for teens and young adults who are having trouble believing in themselves and staying focused on their goals?
In order to be successful in anything, you have to stick to a plan. So in order for your goals to manifest, you have to have a plan laid out and live it out. Many people told me I would never get back in the NFL. I heard this daily in my two years out of the NFL. I knew to believe in my plan and my goals. That’s how all young people should live. Never accept “no.”
