While many rookies are excited about taking their very first NFL snap, none may be more grateful than Brian Banks. Banks is a 28-year-old linebacker for the Atlanta Falcons who finally got his first taste of professional football yesterday. Banks story has captured many people’s attention.
Eleven years ago, Banks was accused of a crime that would take six years of his life away from him. While a student in high school, looking forward to playing football at the University of Southern California, a fellow student accused Banks of rape. Trying to avoid a lengthy trial, Banks plead no contest and thought he would receive a light sentence and may even stay out of jail. Instead, the judge handed down a five-year sentence for a crime that Banks did not commit. After serving all, but a week of his sentence, Banks’ accuser was caught on tape admitting that she made the entire story up. Upon hearing about his conviction being overturned, Banks said, “It was bittersweet, so I was so happy to hear those words, but I’m still left with that question of ‘why’.”
Now came the hard part, making an NFL team. He was given try outs with six different teams, but was only invited back by the Atlanta Falcons. While it is unclear if Banks will make the final roster, he is already living his dream. After getting to appear in his first NFL game, Banks told reporters, “It’s a dream come true. I’m still fighting for a spot on the team, but I said I would make it to the NFL, and play a game, and I did that today.” In the game, Banks even recorded his first NFL tackle.
