Long, Successful NFL Career a Tribute to Christ's Provision
by Doug Greengard
August 23, 2004
(AgapePress) - John Carney is, by all standards, one of the National Football League's top place-kickers. Throughout his lengthy professional career, his determination and hard work have resulted in tremendous on-field success. Carney's greatest sense of accomplishment, however, has come from living a life that is committed to Jesus Christ."He's blessed me, my family and my career immensely," says Carney. "He's what makes me tick."
Now in his fourth season with New Orleans, Carney has set several Saints records and ranks third among active NFL kickers in field goal accuracy. "I'm just flabbergasted that I'm still playing this funny game," adds Carney, now in his 15th professional season. "I have challenges all the time, but when I turn to the Lord and ask Him for wisdom and direction, He never fails."
After his highly successful collegiate career at Notre Dame -- where he became the school's all-time field goal leader -- Carney initially struggled to land a spot on an NFL roster. Released in training camp by Cincinnati in 1987, the sure-footed kicker hooked up with Tampa Bay and played sparingly for the Buccaneers for the next two seasons. Finally, in 1990, Carney landed in San Diego where he blossomed into one of the league's best.
"Years ago, when I was struggling in my career, I came across a scripture in the Book of Romans," says Carney, a 1994 Pro-Bowl selection. "It said, 'If God is for us, who can be against us?' That was a real calming verse for me. Whether I made the field goal or missed the field goal, I was on God's team -- and that was comforting.
"I could go out and perform and the world was bigger than my performance. That helped me push on and give it my best and use the God-given talents He's blessed me with."
Carney is also known throughout the league as being community minded. During his tenure in San Diego, he was the Charger's "Man of the Year" from 1995-1999. He is also regarded as someone who spends a considerable amount of extra time on the practice field and in the weight room.
"It all goes back to God giving me a talent and ability and me not wanting to waste it," adds Carney. "I've seen a lot of talented football players come through the league and they never reach their potential. It's sad to see that potential wasted. I'm very fortunate and blessed to be able to play this game, and I don't want to take it for granted."
So Carney keeps putting his best foot forward -- toward the ultimate target, Jesus Christ.
Doug Greengard is chaplain for the NFL's New Orleans Saints and the host/producer of Christian Sports Minute, a radio feature airing on more than 300 stations in North America. To get Heroes of Faith, a book filled with 24 stories of well-known sports figures, send $10 to Greengard Family Ministries, 2250 Gause Blvd., PMB 51089, Slidell, LA 70461.
