There is no clear-cut path to the NFL. Each player goes through their own trials and tribulations en route to the league.
Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback A.J. Bouye is among them and recently recalled being put through grueling workouts at the U.S. Penitentiary where his father worked as an armed guard.
Although their relationship may have been tumultuous at times, Bouye credits his father for his massive NFL success, according to Terez Paylor of Yahoo Sports:
“No matter how much we didn’t get along at times, he was always there,” A.J. says, “My dad was tough on me, but he didn’t want me to be at the prison he was working at one day.”
It goes without saying that all of Bouye's hard work paid off. However, his rise to stardom was anything but meteoric. In fact, not until the 2017 NFL season was he officially recognized for his efforts.
Bouye went undrafted after a modest career at UCF and signed with the Houston Texans prior to the 2013 NFL season. He then made an impact during his stellar sophomore campaign and etched out an integral role for himself in Houston's defense. He wound up signing a lucrative deal with Jacksonville last offseason and the two have not looked back ever since.
Bouye is coming off a career-year in which he registered 56 tackles, six interceptions and 18 pass-breakups. He was among the notable standout players for this Jaguars defense that garnered second-team All-Pro honors and a trip to the Pro Bowl.
Had it not been for Bouye's tireless work ethic that was instilled in him by his father, it is hard to imagine him being able to accomplish what he has thus far in his career.
Follow Us
Subscribe