Shaquem Griffin has been defying all the odds set against him for most of his life. He lives ambitiously to excel in all aspects despite the ridicule and discrimination that he has faced. Each day, he chooses to live boundary-less for himself and to inspire others that encounter similar challenges.
Most recently, his hope was shaken and tried at this past weekend’s NFL Draft. Day 1 of the draft went by, and he wasn’t selected. Day 2 of the draft ran its course, and he wasn’t selected again. I can only imagine the feelings of disappointment and anxiety that accompanied him going into the third and final day of the draft. Shaquem, who has shared that he doesn’t want to be the topic of a “feel-good story”, but just “a football player, and a good one at that,” was selected by the Seattle Seahawks, his dreams becoming a reality.
Why is Griffin’s story different than all the other draft hopefuls? Why would he be the topic of a feel-good story?
Yes, Shaquem Griffin is just a regular football player. He is also an amputee. At four years old, Griffin’s left hand was amputated as a result of a rare-medical condition. Needless to say, he didn’t just achieve a major personal goal by getting drafted. Griffin has made NFL history as the first one-handed player selected in an NFL draft. He has definitely set the stage for others to follow in his footsteps. See the video below to see his emotional reaction to getting drafted:
Some might consider Shaquem disformed, or disabled. However, I see him destined for greatness. I’m looking forward to seeing how great of a professional football player he will be, and how he will utilize his platform to bring awareness to individuals who have no limitations.
Shaquem Fun Facts
- 2016 American Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year
- 2018 Peach Bowl Defensive MVP
- Ran the fastest 40-yard dash for Line Backers at 2018 Combine at 4.38 (even though he received his Combine invitation late)
- Drafted to the NFL (Seahawks) in the 5th Round; He’ll play alongside his twin/teammate Shaquill Griffin
- NFL jersey sales ranks No. 5 among rookies
I leave you with this recent video filled with words and inspiration from Shaquem Griffin:
I go so hard for people like Julianna. Don’t ever set limitations on us! #AgainstAllOdds #ChargeOn pic.twitter.com/H0F20H8wgo
— shaquem griffin (@Shaquemgriffin) April 30, 2018
