The Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu made his return to the field on Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens after missing the last 7 games with a calf injury and he reportedly came through the game in good shape from a health standpoint.
The time spent on the sideline the last 7 weeks had to be tough on the Steelers defensive back, that is currently in his 10th season, and he shared some of his thoughts about returning from his injury a few days ago on his blog.
Below are the two short paragraphs from his latest post:
After being out for so long, God has reminded me of why football is so important in my life. Time away has this effect on me anyway, but especially when coupled with the sudden and sad news in Kansas City. This game has aligned many things for me, and despite the recent challenges, tragedies, and growing concern for player health, it has enforced virtues, tempted passions, and it has helped reveal to me my own spiritual deficiencies.
I cant help but feel fortunate, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to play this game. I am a better man than I was, still learning and growing, yet far from good enough to be counted among the worthy. May God give us the strength to overcome the many adversities life brings. Thank you all for your sincerest kind words and prayers. I am eternally thankful for them. Pray not just for me, but for all of us who are in need. Many times the veil of money, a smile, even laughter conceals the inner turmoil one goes through.
-Troy
There has been growing speculation that 2012 might be the final season for Polamalu as several think he might actually retire to get on with his life\’s work. Judging by his latest post, I think retirement is the furthest thing from his mind right now. Not that it means anything, but Polamalu is under contract through the 2014 season after signing a new deal just prior to the start of the 2011 season.
On Sunday against the Ravens he played 49 of 63 snaps as the Steelers are trying to be careful with him as he works his way back into football shape after the long layoff. Although he only recorded two tackles and one pressure in the game, everyone is happy to have him back on the field, especially defensive coordinator Dick Lebeau.
LeBeau was asked on Thursday about what he saw from Polamalu against the Ravens, and if he thought that Polamalu had an appreciation for being back out there again.
“It’ll do that for you, said LeBeau. “You never miss the water until the well runs dry. You’re playing every day and then you’re not playing for a while, you do miss it. Troy’s instincts are so great and that’s something you don’t lose. From the first snap that he went in there, you could tell it was Troy in there. He’s just a special player. We’re happy to have him back.”
So how did Polamalu feel coming out of the game? As usual, his response was brief and to the point, just like his recent blog post.
“I felt good,” Polamalu said. “I felt good all game.”
I think we can hold off on that retirement speculation for now.
