Jamall Lee: Life At The Bottom Of The Heap

(Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

"He's learning our system; he's got physical tools, obviously. We'll see how he progresses," Panthers head coach John Fox said, according to the team’s website.

As an undrafted free agent, Lee’s playing time is probably more related to injuries than to his progression. For NFL players, particularly running backs, the end of the season may only be one hit away. Additionally, DeAngelo Williams may pay the price for being so successful last season.

Williams rushed the ball 273 times last season. This total leaves him outside the Curse of 370, a theory that any running back with over 370 carries in a season has a greater risk of getting injured the following year. However, it’s possible that Williams’ first full season as a starter could produce a hangover. So, even as the Panthers’ fifth running back he may get a chance to play.

In all likelihood, Lee wants to earn his playing time. His work ethic is unquestioned. In preparation for the CFL combine held in March, Lee worked out in California for two months. Six days each week would be filled with lifting, running and competing against players who were preparing for the NFL combine.

Competition is something that athletes crave. It’s why Lee wants to play against the best players. When a player gets so close to his dream, is it possible that they wish harm on the players above them?

This is not a suggestion that Lee or any other player should pull a Tonya Harding. But could they be rooting for one of those hits? How bad would a middle-class worker feel if he got a temporary promotion after his co-worker had to take a paid medical leave of absence?

Lee has done nothing to suggest that he wants any of the running backs ahead of him to become injured. In fact, he’s simply thankful to have an opportunity to compete against the best. Should his best fall short, he will play for the Lions in the CFL.

"I want to push myself as far as I can go and see what happens," Lee said, according to the Carolina Panthers’ website. "If it doesn't work out, I'm happy I took my shot and I'll go back home."

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