
RB Jermar Jefferson, according to Dan Campbell, is now in a “really good place.” It appears that was no coincidence. Jefferson and I had a conversation regarding his offseason workout regimen, both physically and mentally.When asked about Jermar Jefferson, Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell couldn’t help but laugh it off.Campbell interrupted himself, saying, “I almost don’t want to answer because I feel like it’s the same thing, I say something about a person and I feel like it’s the kiss of death because the next practice is…Finally, Campbell said, “Jefferson is in a really good place right now.”
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“He’s in a very positive place. Excellent location.It’s safe to conclude that Jefferson was not hexed by Campbell’s good compliments. Following that, in Friday’s scrimmage practice, the former seventh-round choice of the Lions responded with two touchdowns, including a 50-yard run against the first-team defence. He did this by beating standout defensive back Brian Branch to the edge, then turning the ball upfield and finding daylight.The running back has had a difficult journey thus far in his NFL career, which is about to begin its fourth year. As a rookie, he played in seven games. His standout performance was a 28-yard rushing touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers, which regrettably led to an injury.He hasn’t returned to the pitch since that season. Despite signing to the practice squad, he was not selected for the 2022 squad. He had an injury during the previous preseason that sent him to injured reserve, but he was eventually able to return to the practice squad following an injury settlement.Jefferson acknowledges that he suffered mentally for the first three years and began to form bad mental habits.Jefferson said to Pride of Detroit, “I feel like my head hasn’t been there mentally for the past three years.” “I wasn’t performing well because I wasn’t in the right frame of mind.”But as Year 4 approached, he had a revelation. He was not getting any younger, to start with. Even while 24 would not seem elderly in any other profession, it’s considered middle age for an NFL running back. He also realised that he was already fulfilling a lot of people’s wishes.”I acknowledged my blessings. Right now, I’m delighted,” Jefferson remarked. “A lot of people aspire to hold my role.”His approach to the offseason changed significantly as a result of the sense of urgency and optimistic outlook, and it all began with taking care of his physical and emotional well-being. Physically speaking, it’s more upkeep before and after practice. It’s not being scared to ask for help mentally.Jefferson stated, “I’ve been meeting with a psychiatrist, doing a lot of meditation, and things like that.” “Maintaining a positive outlook and increasing my faith in God.”Jefferson is aware that he is up against it in the crowded back room of the Lions. David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs are the established starters. Among the team’s most reliable players is Craig Reynolds. Sione Vaki was just selected by Detroit with a fourth-round pick. However, Campbell isn’t looking at depth charts or tallying roster places, just as he doesn’t usually advise his players before to training camp. It is an inward concentration.”I try to worry about myself, but we can all make plays, so that’s what makes it tough,” Jefferson remarked. “I try not to worry about other people and instead focus on myself. Just keep your attention on me and keep improving.His recovery has involved a variety of approaches. He advanced significantly on special teams the previous year. His goal for this season has been to increase his offensive toolkit so that he can be used as a weapon in the passing game. But after two weeks of training camp, the crucial job of pass protector may have been the most apparent. Jefferson has been as dependable as anyone in one-on-ones and team reps, a development he attributes to running backs coach Scottie Montgomery.He taught me a lot of useful information regarding pass protection. This offseason, I started to bring that to practice and practice it,” Jefferson said.However, Jefferson understands that his roster spot will ultimately depend on his performance on special teams, and he is focused on adding value there considering how low on the depth chart he presently occupies—regularly representing the second and third team offences. His vision, which he sees as his best rushing weapon, should translate into a returner position on the new kickoff, which many predict will be fashioned like a running play. Even though he hasn’t had much practice time there, Jefferson is hoping the coaching staff will give him a chance to show off his abilities during the preseason.
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