Philadelphia Eagles receiver Jason Avant makes a spectacular catch. From gang membership and drug use and sales, he has become a highly respected pro.PHILADELPHIA – Jason Avant raises his hands to the sky after every reception in celebration for much more than catching a ball.
Playing football for the Philadelphia Eagles doesn’t define Avant. After everything he’s endured, the 29-year-old wide receiver is no ordinary professional athlete.
Avant was 12 when he started selling drugs. He went to elementary school drunk and high. As a teenager, he belonged to one of Chicago’s notorious gangs called the “Gangsters Disciples.” Dodging bullets and running from the police were common for him.
Yet somehow Avant escaped that life and avoided ending up dead or in jail like some of his friends. Now he’s one of the most respected players in the NFL.
Now he walks around the locker room singing gospel music and always carries a Bible. He leads teammates in Bible study on Thursdays and mentors young players and veterans. He quotes scripture the way movie buffs recite lines to their favorite film.