At the moment, there’s no better story in the Green Bay Packers lockerrom than
Johnny Jolly (left) getting ready for Sunday
defensive lineman Johnny Jolly.
The 30-year-old was out of football for three years because of a drug suspension. Three years away from the game would be career ending for most players. But Jolly made it back.
His return didn’t come without some anxiousness. Despite his ability to make plays throughout training camp, Jolly never thought he had wrapped up a spot.
Jolly was performing at a high level for the Packers prior to his suspension. He was asked this week if he ever thought what if, what if he didn’t get mixed up with drugs?
AUDIO: Jolly is asked if he ever wonders what might have been :15
Making the roster is only the first step in Jolly’s journey.
When Jolly lines up against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, he’ll be looking to continue his play-making ways of years past.
AUDIO: Jolly on the hardest part of his return :11
Jolly’s journey was a long one. But he stood out every day in training camp, finding a way to come up with big play after big play, forcing the Packers to give his return to the league some serious consideration.
The Packers kept seven defensive lineman on the roster and not all of them will suit up Sunday for the season opener. Jolly is hoping he’ll have the uniform on Sunday, beginning to repay the Packers for their patience and investment in him.