Ryan Grant's NFL Wish Is Granted

I still remember that special day when Ryan Grant passed the 1,000 yard rushing mark in a season. He ran so swift and sure to find the end zone.

On November 2, 2002, I went to see the Irish take on Boston College. My dad and I always went to "The Huddle," a restaurant and cafeteria on campus.

A man walked up to me and asked, "Who is your favorite player?" 

I told him, "Arnaz Battle."

Then he asked, "Who is your second favorite player?" 

I replied it was Ryan Grant.

So he looked me straight in the eyes and said, "Well, son, I am his father."

My dad, Mr. Grant and I sat in a booth and talked about Ryan for about an hour. He became my favorite player. Although Notre Dame lost, I will never forget that game.

Mr. Grant gave my dad his address and number so we could write letters to each other. I wrote him a letter a month later and a package was sent back. It was filled with pictures and memorabilia of Ryan. I haven’t spoken to Mr. Grant in about two and a half years, but I hope to talk to him soon.

Ryan Grant was asked in his last game if Julius Jones helped him become a better player. He replied that he still talks to Julius frequently, and he hopes to play with Jones in the NFL.

Grant was signed by the Giants as an undrafted free agent in 2005. He was then traded to the Packers in September after recovering from a severe hand injury. He thought he would never play again, but when the doctor said it was possible, Ryan was determined to do anything to get back on that field.

Ryan Grant was the second-leading rusher in the NFL over the season's last 10 games, and is improving. He is one of the hardest workers on the Packers and in the league.

I expect a big game from him against the Giants this weekend, and I wish him the best in the future.