NFL tight end Jake Ballard, who is currently playing for the Arizona Cardinals, realized just how quickly you can fall from the top. After suffering a knee injury in the Super Bowl back in 2012 with the New York Giants, Ballard was released.
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Ballard found work with the New England Patriots, but he needed to first rehab his knee before having an opportunity to see the field.
Unfortunately for Ballard, that never came and he was ultimately released.
Ballard then resurfaced with the Arizona Cardinals and he is now trying to make the most out of his latest opportunity.
His previous experiences have shown him how difficult a career in the NFL can be, but it is something that he has been able to embrace despite the emotional roller coaster ride that is has taken him on.
“I don’t think anybody has been through the trials and tribulations like I have, the highest of highs and the lowest of lows,” Ballard told the Arizona Republic. “It’s been mentally challenging and physically challenging. But it’s definitely been worth it.”
In Arizona, Ballard is on a team that is trending in the right direction, so it will be interesting to see just how long he is able to stick around with the Cardinals.