Can a one-handed linebacker make it in the NFL? Shaquem Griffin made his case at the NFL Scouting Combine. He was incredible!
Shaquem Griffin was born with a condition called amniotic band syndrome. His hand was underdeveloped and amputated when he was 4 years old. His twin brother, Shaquille, only one minute older than him, plays for the Seattle Seahawks, and is Shaquem's biggest fan.
He graduated from the University of Central Florida and became a bit of a star there--playing with massive heart and determination, helping the team win the Peach Bowl. (Leading into his senior season, Shaquem wanted to dedicate himself to preparing for the season, so he lived at the training facility--got an air mattress and groceries and spent all his free time working out and watching film.)
He was a late-invite to the NFL Combine, and most people, coaches, and reporters thought there was not much he was going to bring. Instead, he ran the fastest 40 of any linebacker in 10 years, bench-pressed 225 lbs 20 times with a prosthetic hand, and lined up in multiple positions. He was also quite impressive in interviews. Hopes are high for Shaquem Griffin!!