Duke Johnson is using football to send prayers to a Pittsburgh Steelers player
The entire NFL has made their thoughts and prayers known for Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker, Ryan Shazier.
Following one of the most devastating injuries in recent memory, Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker, Ryan Shazier, is doing everything he can to get back on the field. With a long road ahead, the entire NFL is sending their thoughts to the linebacker.
One player who’s been a major surprise in sending prayers is Cleveland Browns running back, Duke Johnson Jr., who’s using his touchdown celebrations to send positive vibes to Shazier.
Since Shazier’s injury, every time Johnson touches the endzone he drops to his knees and prays for the linebacker’s recovery. For a member of an AFC North rival, what Johnson is doing is something that shows that football is about way more than what happens on the field.
The best part about this is that Johnson and Shazier don’t know each other, and Johnson doesn’t want any recognition. When he drops to his knees, he isn’t looking to bring spotlight to him or the Browns, he’s simply sending his message to Shazier.
"“I just do it and kind of move on,” Johnson told ESPN. “Once again I’m not actually doing it for praise, for people to reach out. To me it’s bigger than that.”"
Johnson’s message is heard, even if he isn’t looking for attention. Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin, hasn’t reached out to Johnson, but he did speak to the Cleveland media prior to their Week 17 matchup regarding the celebrations.
"“It’s just great to be in a business where that gets highlighted,” Mike Tomlin said. “That happens all around us. Guys show class in a lot of ways, but for whatever reason in today’s sports society we spend a lot of time talking about negativity. … I tip my cap to him for what he’s doing”"
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Johnson’s message is clear and an excellent example of what football really is about. Everyone is hoping for the best for Shazier, and to see Johnson’s gesture proves there’s more to this game than what happens in between the tackles.