Packers RB Leaves NFL Dream Behind to Join the U.S. Army Just 72 Hours After Release
Green Bay, WI – September 12, 2025
Life in the NFL moves fast, but sometimes what follows moves even faster. Just days ago, one young running back was fighting for a place in Green Bay’s backfield. Today, his path has shifted toward a calling no one could have predicted.
He had worked tirelessly through the offseason, pushing for every rep, hoping his speed and vision would earn him a role behind the Packers’ established stars. Yet in a league where opportunity is scarce and cuts are ruthless, he was waived before Week 2 — his NFL dream slipping away almost overnight.
Seventy-two hours later, Israel Abanikanda made a choice that stunned teammates and fans alike. Instead of waiting for another call, he announced that he would enlist in the United States Army, trading in the green and gold for a uniform that represents sacrifice and service.
“I poured my heart into chasing my NFL dream with the Packers, but when that chapter closed, I realized life was asking more of me. Just 72 hours after being released, I chose the U.S. Army. Football gave me discipline and toughness, but serving my country will give me purpose that lasts forever,”
Inside the Packers’ facility, coaches praised his professionalism and work ethic. He wasn’t a household name, but his determination in practice set an example for younger players. His decision to serve left many stunned but deeply respectful of his courage.
For Packers Nation, this is more than just another roster move. Instead of tracking carries or yards, Abanikanda’s next chapter will be measured in sacrifice, honor, and duty.
As Green Bay moves forward in its pursuit of another postseason run, Abanikanda’s choice will linger as a reminder that some dreams extend far beyond football, proving that even in release, there can be a beginning greater than the game itself.
BREAKING: Kansas City Chiefs Fire Staffer Charlie Rock Over Charlie Kirk Post
Kansas City, MO – September 11, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs have dismissed a staff member after a controversial social media post about the tragic shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk triggered widespread outrage.
Reports confirm that the Chiefs employee — part of the team’s communications staff — posted an image of Kirk with the caption, “Why are y’all sad? Your man said it was worth it …”
The reaction across social media was immediate, with fans and political voices condemning the remarks as offensive and unacceptable.
Chiefs owner Clark Hunt addressed the controversy directly in a statement: “The Kansas City Chiefs have always stood for unity, respect, and integrity. Violence should never be mocked, and Charlie Rock’s words do not reflect the values of our organization or the standard we set for our community.”
The move mirrors the earlier decision by the Carolina Panthers, who also fired an employee this week over a nearly identical incident. Both cases highlight how NFL teams are increasingly under scrutiny regarding staff conduct online.
Some commentators framed the issue as a clash between free speech and organizational responsibility, but the overwhelming response suggested that swift accountability was the only path to protect the league’s reputation.
By acting quickly, the Chiefs underscored their commitment to maintaining the trust of their fans, reinforcing that every member of the franchise is expected to uphold its values on and off the field.
