As the NFL Draft approaches this week, ESPN has been increasing its news coverage of the NFL, and as I was on the treadmill this morning, they had a story on JaMarcus Russell. JaMarcus Russell was the number one overall pick in 2007 NFL Draft and signed a contract with the Oakland Raiders for $32 million dollars of guaranteed money. After two disappointing seasons, he was fired by the Raiders and has not played a single minute of football for any NFL team since.

I have been following JaMarcus Russell’s story in the news, partly just because I am a sucker for the underdog. I love to see people overcome challenges, especially if the challenge is from their own mistakes. Stories of redemption are inspiring, but even more than that, they tell the story of Scripture. The Bible is one massive story about redemption and the lengths God will go to for His own children.

The story on ESPN showed JaMarcus’ efforts to improve his game, including losing 45lbs. and working with former quarterback Jeff Garcia and other experts to improve his throwing motion and decision-making on the field. The story also included quotes from JaMarcus’ family, who mentioned how much JaMarcus has matured and realized how much he does not want to fail in his goal of playing football again.

Many people will judge JaMarcus based on his results on the football field. If he never plays football again, he will be remembered as one of the biggest draft busts in history. Even if he makes it back to the football field, it would take years of exceptional play to erase the past. But in many ways, the journey is just as important as the result.

Don’t misunderstand me: results matter. If you are consistently failing to achieve your goals, there is something going on in your life that needs to be addressed, but don’t focus so much on the goal that you deprive yourself of the journey. Whether or not JaMarcus Russell ever plays football again, if his journey leads him develop a stronger work ethic, kick his codeine habit, and become a deeper (and hopefully Christian) man, then those are huge gains that are worth more than his ability to play football.

Once his comeback attempt is over, his journey will not be chronicled on ESPN, but whatever he gained during the process will still be with him.

Author’s note: This post is also available at Fridley Covenant Church.