Introduction: The Rise of Branden Oliver
The NFL is known for producing some of the world’s greatest athletes, and Branden Oliver is no exception. Despite being undrafted and overlooked by many teams, Oliver has faced the odds and made it to the top. The San Diego Chargers signed him as a free agent in 2014, and since then, he has become an NFL star. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at how Oliver made it to the top, his journey, and what he’s achieved so far.
Breaking the Ice: The Beginning
Branden Oliver was born on May 7, 1991, in Miami, Florida. He grew up playing football from a young age and was a standout player in high school, where he played running back for the University of Buffalo. Despite excelling, Oliver went undrafted in the 2014 NFL draft.
After failing to get picked, Oliver didn’t let this setback stop him from pursuing his dream. He worked hard during the offseason, hoping to get a call from an NFL team. In August of the same year, the San Diego Chargers signed him as a free agent.
The Struggle: Getting Noticed
Oliver’s road to NFL fame wasn’t all sunshine and roses. Throughout his rookie year, he only got limited snaps on the field and was often shuffled between the active roster and the practice squad. Many fans thought he’d never make it past being a benchwarmer.
However, Oliver never stopped working hard, and eventually, his persistence paid off. In 2014, he got his first big break when the Chargers’ starting running back, Ryan Mathews, went down with an injury. Oliver took advantage of the opportunity and stepped up, becoming the Chargers’ primary running back for the rest of the season.
Off the Beaten Path: Oliver’s Style
Unlike many NFL running backs, Oliver is known for his shifty style of running. He’s only 5’8″ tall and 208 pounds, making him much smaller than other backs in the league. Despite his small stature, he can use his speed to burst through small gaps in the defense.
In addition to his speed, Oliver is known for his strong work ethic and commitment to the game. He’s always been willing to put in the hard work behind the scenes, which has helped him stand out from other players.
The Comeback: Overcoming Injuries
Oliver’s NFL career hasn’t been without its challenges. In 2015, he suffered a foot injury, which put him on the sidelines for the entire season. It was a major setback for the young running back, but he didn’t let it get him down.
Instead, he worked even harder during the offseason, determined to come back stronger than ever. His dedication and hard work paid off in 2016 when he returned to the field and had a career-high season with 583 yards rushing and three touchdowns.
The Good Life: Oliver’s Achievements
Branden Oliver’s rise to NFL fame hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2014, he was named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week after a standout performance against the New York Jets. He’s also been recognized for his achievements off the field, receiving the Chargers’ Community Player of the Year award in both 2014 and 2015.
FAQs
1. What is Branden Oliver’s Best NFL Season?
Oliver’s best NFL season was in 2016, where he had a career-high of 583 yards rushing and three touchdowns.
2. What Style of Running Does Oliver Use?
Oliver is known for his shifty style of running, which allows him to use his speed to burst through small gaps in the defense.
3. Has Oliver Won Any Awards?
Yes, Oliver was named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week in 2014 and received the Chargers’ Community Player of the Year award in both 2014 and 2015.
4. Has Oliver Been Injured?
Yes, Oliver suffered a foot injury in 2015, which put him on the sidelines for the entire season.
5. What Team Does Oliver Play For?
Oliver currently plays for the Dallas Cowboys.
6. Was Oliver Drafted in the NFL?
No, Oliver went undrafted in the 2014 NFL draft.
7. What is Oliver’s Work Ethic Like?
Oliver is known for his strong work ethic and commitment to the game. He’s always been willing to put in the hard work behind the scenes, which has helped him stand out from other players.
Conclusion: The Story of Branden Oliver
Branden Oliver’s journey to NFL fame is one of hard work, persistence, and perseverance. Despite being undrafted and overlooked, he’s become one of the league’s brightest stars, with an impressive list of achievements to his name. Oliver’s story is a great example of how hard work pays off in the end, and he continues to be an inspiration to many young athletes today. If you’re looking for motivation to keep pushing towards your goals, look no further than Branden Oliver.