Kansas City Chiefs CB Jackie Bates recently signed a two year reserve/futures contract. He's an undrafted free agent so he doesn't get much print around here but his story is an interesting one.
Previously a member of the Oregon Ducks, Bates broke his ankle, which caused him to miss eight games in the 2006 season. Following that, he was suspended by the team after getting into a fight.
He still had eligibility remaining at Oregon but decided to transfer to Hampton to get a fresh start.
One other issue he's dealt with is the shooting of his friend and fellow Oregon recruit Terrance Kelly in 2004. It's really a sad story.
"After Terrance, after breaking my ankle, being suspended, everything, I knew there was light at the end of the tunnel because of my faith in God," he told the Oregonian.
Bates says he's "finally 100 percent and back to running at full speed."
Bates has been through quite a lot and to continue to forge ahead -- despite his past mistakes -- is a testament to his character. Let's hope that translates to the field.