Ian Wheeler’s positivity has been a quiet superpower that helped the Howard College graduate and Chicago Bears operating again select resilience over defeat.
When a torn ACL ended his season earlier than it even started, Wheeler might have crumbled below the burden of disappointment. He had made the Bears’ last roster. His childhood dream was actual.
“It was bittersweet,” Wheeler mentioned, reflecting on his rookie season spent on injured reserve. “You’re employed exhausting and typically stuff doesn’t go your means. However being positioned on IR turned out to be a blessing. It gave me an opportunity to decelerate, be taught the sport higher, give attention to my rehab and grow to be the perfect model of myself for this coming season.”
Wheeler’s story is constructed on greater than athleticism. He began taking part in soccer at seven years previous and balanced lecturers and athletics during school. He even deferred medical college to chase the NFL dream—a bet that many wouldn’t dare take.
Earlier than the damage, Wheeler made an enduring impression: 12 carries, 52 yards and two touchdowns throughout three preseason video games — together with a breakout efficiency towards Buffalo that turned heads. His underdog journey grew to become a fan favourite on “Exhausting Knocks,” resonating with viewers throughout the nation.
Rookie RB Ian Wheeler’s mother was proper there for her son when he received the information that he tore his ACL. ❤️#HardKnocks with the @ChicagoBears obtainable now on @StreamOnMax pic.twitter.com/dOQfdsNoWN
— NFL (@NFL) August 28, 2024
At Howard, Wheeler rushed for 1,139 yards and 13 touchdowns over his last three seasons, averaged 6.54 yards per carry, caught 23 passes for 234 yards and returned a program-best three kickoffs for touchdowns.
“I perceive how exhausting this path is,” Wheeler mentioned. “Thousands and thousands of children play highschool soccer. Tens of hundreds play in school. Just a few ever make it to the NFL. Simply getting into an NFL constructing is a blessing. Coming from a smaller college and making an affect reminds those that good soccer is sweet soccer. Nothing is assured — and that’s what makes each second particular.”
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