Zack Moss, the Cincinnati Bengals running back, has faced a challenging journey since suffering a serious neck injury last season. Known for his toughness, Moss was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2020 and has always had his wife Jess by his side at training camps. However, this year was different; the couple chose to prioritize their young family, leaving Jess and their two children back in Utah.
The decision to change training camp dynamics was rooted in practicality as the couple adjusts to life with a 2-year-old son, Xavien, and a 2-month-old daughter, Promise. As Moss reflects on his life, he acknowledges that family must come first amidst his ambitions in football.
Last year, Moss sustained a fractured neck in three places just before facing the Las Vegas Raiders, leading to months of rehabilitation and recovery. He described the period spent in a neck brace as a time of limitation, adapting to life as a “couch potato,” while weighing the decision about his future in the sport.
Despite doubts about his career trajectory, Moss is determined to continue playing. During discussions with head coach Zac Taylor, thoughts of retirement emerged, but Moss’s commitment to his family and his daunting rehabilitation lead him to pursue a return to the field.
In light of his injury, Moss’s place on the Bengals’ roster became uncertain. While he accumulated over 3,000 scrimmage yards and 21 touchdowns in his career, the emergence of rookie Chase Brown and the addition of Samaje Perine complicate his position. Ultimately, the Bengals made adjustments to his contract, reducing his salary but guaranteeing additional funds in recognition of his situation.
Moss understands the mental and physical hurdles ahead, especially as he focuses on regaining his football conditioning after being sidelined. He has been placed on the Non-Football Injury list, redirecting attention back to preparing himself for potential gameplay. His stance remains hopeful; he acknowledges the unpredictability of life in the NFL but emphasizes focusing on what he can control today.
As Moss navigates these challenges, his dedication to both his family and football shines through, showing that no matter the difficulties, he intends to fight for his place on the team. The support from his coaches and teammates highlights a shared commitment to safety, as they hope for the best outcome for Moss, both on and off the field.
This story reflects a broader sentiment about resilience and determination—qualities essential not just in sports but in life as well. While Moss faces uncertainty, his perseverance is a source of inspiration for many, presenting a narrative of hope amidst adversity.