In a remarkable twist of fate, Bills defensive lineman Gable Steveson made his NFL debut in the team’s preseason opener, despite never having played football prior to this experience. This unique journey is a testament to the incredible athletic prowess of Steveson, who is already regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers in American history.
Having clinched the prestigious Dan Hodge Trophy twice and securing an Olympic gold medal in Tokyo, Steveson’s transition to football is nothing short of extraordinary. Despite the unfamiliarity of the gridiron, Steveson embraced the challenge with open arms and savored every moment of his NFL debut.
Reflecting on his first taste of football action, Steveson expressed his joy at being able to compete at the highest level. “My first football game ever, definitely a great time, definitely cool to see all the Buffalo Bills fans come out,” Steveson remarked. “The bright lights, the fans, the loud atmosphere and people getting after it. That’s what you want to see.”
Steveson acknowledged the learning curve associated with his new sport but remained optimistic about his growth potential. “Definitely a big adjustment, but we prepared for this,” Steveson noted. “There’s always room to grow.”
Despite limited playing time in his debut, Steveson managed to make an impact with one tackle and a quarterback pressure. While he faces an uphill battle to secure a spot on the Bills’ regular-season roster, Steveson’s undeniable talent and competitive spirit make him a strong contender for a practice squad position. With dedication and hard work, Steveson could potentially evolve into a valuable asset for the Bills and fulfill his dream of playing in a meaningful NFL game.