Johnny Knox has a long road back to the field

Share

Johnny Knox says he doesn't think about the hit last December against Seattle that left him with a fractured vertebrae. There is no pain anymore even though he spent two and half months in a body cast after surgery. But, ask him if he's seen the horrific hit and he winces.

"Have not seen the hit," Knox says shaking his head. "I don't want to see it. I probably won't see it until I retire."

That's because a hit like that could have ended the receiver's career right then and there. In fact, it could have paralyzed him. So, the fact that Knox is walking let alone trying to play football again is a small miracle.

"After the hit, I was moving my legs so I knew that was a good sign," recalled Knox. "Out of surgery the doc said I could play again, so that was a plus."

Knox is clinging to that message from the doctor, hoping to take the field sometime in 2012, but is realistic enough to know he could miss the entire season.

"I'm not in no rush, this is my spine, the core of my body I'm dealing with," reasoned Knox. "It's not my knee, my ankle or my shoulder. I'm taking my time on this."

Knox is limited to light cardio and weight lifting with machines. He's gained back 10 pounds of the 30 that he lost.

He's not worried about other guys passing him by and sounded excited about the addition of Brandon Marshall even though it's one more person who could take his spot.

"He's a big-time receiver," smiled Knox. "I'm looking forward to getting out there and playing with him."

Knox feels that no matter how long it takes him to get back, he will compete as if he never left. Staying positive is part of his recovery.

"Since day one my mindset has been real positive," says Knox. "No letdowns, no setbacks. I'm surrounded by a great group of people, a great group of friends, family. They keep me positive in moving forward."

It will be a long road back to the field for Knox, but for now he's happy with his progress and says he's right where he needs to be.

Contact Us