During his college years, Detroit Lions linebacker Josh Paschal faced a significant hurdle – a malignant melanoma diagnosis in his left foot. This challenging experience, he shared with Fox News Digital, was initially difficult to process.
Despite the setback, Paschal's determination propelled him back onto the field, ultimately leading to his selection as a second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. He views this achievement as destiny, expressing immense gratitude for the leadership within the Lions organization. He emphasized the team's tight-knit bond, describing it as the closest group he's been a part of since his early football days. Paschal admires the team's shared resilience and their embodiment of Detroit's gritty, persevering spirit.
Paschal acknowledges the severity of his cancer battle, calling it "the worst thing that can happen to you in life." However, he credits Lions' head coach Dan Campbell for providing valuable perspective. Campbell's mantra, "Everybody in this room is here for a reason," resonated deeply with Paschal, who believes his journey through adversity has shaped him into the player and person he is today. He recognizes the shared experiences of his teammates and coaches, highlighting their collective understanding of overcoming hardship and their strong character.
As a representative for The V Foundation for Cancer Research during the NFL's "My Cause My Cleats" campaign, Paschal further demonstrated his commitment to battling the disease. Inspired by Jim Valvano's iconic "Don't ever give up" message, he joined the foundation, driven by a desire to make a difference. After his diagnosis, Paschal initially felt disheartened about his football future. However, he credits his support system – his family, friends, and faith – for helping him regain his focus. He adopted Valvano's "don't ever give up" philosophy, applying it to both his cancer fight and his overall approach to life.
With the Lions potentially on the cusp of their first Super Bowl appearance, Paschal emphasizes the team's focus on continuous improvement. He believes in peaking at the right time and bouncing back from setbacks, demonstrating the resilience that defines their identity. He acknowledges the need for improvement after a recent game where they conceded too many points but remains confident in their ability to rebound.
