Peyton Manning and Adrian Peterson have gotten most of the attention for potential Comeback Player of the Year honors as the 2012 NFL season opens, but there's another offensive weapon looking to return to form from a season-shortening injury fans might have forgotten about.
Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles' 2011 season was short-lived after suffering an ACL injury Week 2 against the Detroit Lions, a huge blow that followed back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing campaigns. Charles rushed for 1,467 yards rushing in 2010 and has averaged an impressive 6.1 yards per carry going into his fifth NFL season.
It's no surprise the 25-year-old Charles is ready to hit the field again, which he'll do Sunday at noon when the Chiefs host the Atlanta Falcons in a Week 1 matchup.
"It’s going to feel real great. I’m excited to be on the field again, especially with my teammates. The passion out there, everything I said in the interview when I met with you all in the offseason, it’s part of what I want to do when Sunday comes. I spoke it and I have to come and prove it. I feel good, I feel great right now. I just can’t wait until the opportunity comes."
Is Charles worried about re-injuring his knee?
"No, because I’m worried about the Falcons, I’m not worried about my knee. The only thing I’m worried about is staying healthy for the whole season."
Read more on the Chiefs at Arrowhead Pride and SB Nation Kansas City. Head over to our NFL hub page for additional news and analysis around the league.
Already drafted your fantasy team and looking for a new challenge? Try our Pick 6 challenge!
