Former OSU Standout Kent Graham,

Now With Jacksonville Jaguars
by Doug Greengard

Kent Graham's National Football League career has been a journey. Since being signed as an eighth-round draft choice by the New York Giants in 1992, the 6-6, 250-pound quarterback has been well-traveled-and even that might be an understatement. Graham has gone from New York to Detroit, on to Arizona, back to New York, followed by stints in Pittsburgh, Washington and now Jacksonville. During that time, Graham has enjoyed great success, suffered disappointments, defeats, injury and, of course, rejection.

But through it all, the one thing that has not changed is the peace he enjoys through his relationship with Jesus Christ. "The one thing football does is it always reminds you how dependant you are upon Christ," said Graham. "That's how I approach the game every time I go out and play. That's one of the great things about being a football player. You get to go out and experience that." Raised in a Christian household, Graham learned at a young age to have a dependency on Christ. His father worked in full-time ministry and showed Graham the importance of trusting in an awesome God who wants the best for His earthly children.

The former Ohio State University standout says the mere thought of playing football-or going through life-without experiencing the presence of God would be challenging. "It would be difficult," he added. "There are a lot of things out there where things can get difficult and you have to rely on your faith in Christ to get you through. There are a lot of tough situations, especially at the quarterback position because it can get rough out there."

During his 11 NFL seasons, Graham has seen just how temporary his position can be. While it may have been an easier and more comfortable career playing for one or, perhaps, two different teams, he has been given the opportunity to share the good news of Jesus with a wide variety of people in different parts of the country. "I'm fortunate to know what Christ has done for me," said Graham, who is focused on sharing God's love with others the way Jesus would. "I think you do it in a genuine way. I think here in the locker room you get so close to guys, one on one, that they will see Christ in your life."

Victories and touchdowns are great, but Graham will tell you that nothing compares to winning a soul for eternity for Jesus Christ.

Doug Greengard is the host/producer of the Christian Sports Minute, a radio feature airing on 337 stations in North America. To get Heroes of Faith, a book filled with 24 stories of well-known sports figures, send $10 to: Greengard Family Ministries, P.O. Box 113013, Metairie, LA 70011-3013. Visit the website at www.christiansportsminute.com

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