TTM Stats
- Sent: 7/14/2022 | Received: 7/23/2022 | 9 Days
- ’08 Score
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Jake Long’s journey from a dominant NFL offensive tackle to a wellness advocate is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and personal growth. From his early days in Michigan to his transformation post-retirement, Long’s story is both inspiring and instructive.
Born on May 9, 1985, in Lapeer, Michigan, Jake Long showcased athletic prowess from a young age. At Lapeer East High School, he earned All-State “Dream Team” honors in football and excelled in basketball and baseball. His multifaceted athletic talent set the stage for a remarkable collegiate career.
At the University of Michigan, Long became a cornerstone of the Wolverines’ offensive line. He was a consensus All-American in 2006 and a unanimous All-American in 2007. Serving as team co-captain in 2007, he was instrumental in the team’s 20 victories over two seasons. His accolades included being named the Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year twice.
Selected first overall in the 2008 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins, Long made an immediate impact. He started every game he played for the Dolphins from 2008 to 2012, earning Pro Bowl selections in each of his first four seasons. After his tenure with Miami, he played for the St. Louis Rams, Atlanta Falcons, and Minnesota Vikings, concluding a commendable nine-year NFL career.
Long’s career faced challenges due to injuries, culminating in a torn Achilles in 2016 while with the Vikings. Recognizing the toll on his body, he announced his retirement in April 2017, stating, “My heart and mind still want to play, but my body is telling me something completely different.”
Post-retirement, Long embarked on a transformative health journey. Shedding over 70 pounds from his playing weight of 315 pounds, he attributed this change to regular Peloton workouts and therapy sessions. His commitment to health and wellness was evident during his induction into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in 2024, where his transformation garnered significant attention.
Long’s approach combined physical activity, clean eating, and mental health focus. He embraced the Whole30 diet, emphasizing whole foods and eliminating processed items, leading to increased energy and reduced inflammation. Therapy played a crucial role in addressing the psychological aspects of his transformation, helping him shift from the mindset of an NFL lineman to that of a health-conscious individual.
Beyond the field, Long is a family man, married to his college sweetheart, Jacqueline Laurian, since 2012. His personal experiences have fueled his passion for health advocacy, inspiring others to prioritize well-being. Through public appearances and social media, Long shares insights into his journey, encouraging a holistic approach to health that encompasses physical fitness and mental wellness.
Jake Long’s evolution from an NFL star to a wellness advocate underscores the importance of adaptability and self-care. His story serves as a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to redefine oneself and pursue a path of health and fulfillment.
The Score on Jake Long – 6.5
Jake has a really stylized signature. I normally talk about how certain letters in a signature either repeat or they compliment it other, but in Jake’s signature it’s actually that the letters compliment or repeat his number. The only thing that I see with this one that I don’t like is that it looks like the card didn’t take the marker as well. It just doesn’t look sharp.
Thanks Mr. Long! I’m giving this return a 6.5.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Pro Football Reference.