As Marquise Goodwin prepares to compete for a chance at an Olympic dream, the Buffalo Bills receiver is keenly aware of his position as a two-sport athlete.
Goodwin recently told The MMQB's Emily Kaplan he understand the predicament he could be in if he makes the U.S. Olympic team as a long jumper.
"I know it is a risk," he said. "I want a second contract. I'd love it to be in Buffalo. I love football. But I know how important it is to live your life like you want to. I know some organizations wouldn't allow that, but Rex (Ryan) does and I'm so appreciative of that."
Goodwin finished 10th in the London Olympics in 2012. Prior to being drafted in the third round in 2013, several NFL teams wondered if he'd prioritize football over track. The wideout already missed offseason workouts this year while training for the track competition.
Amid reports that the Bills could move on from the receiver if he makes the Olympic team, Goodwin said he has Ryan's blessing.
"The way Rex sees it," Goodwin said, "is that you're a man at the end of the day. He said, 'I wouldn't want to take you from a dream of yours. And if that's a dream of yours, go do it.'"
One big issue is timing. The long jump event takes place in Rio de Janeiro on Aug. 13, which means Goodwin would miss the beginning portions of training camp. Ryan said earlier this month that participating in track is "hurting" Goodwin's chances of making the roster.
Goodwin caught just two receptions in two games in 2015. His best season came as a rookie, when he caught 17 passes for 283 yards and three touchdowns.
The 25-year-old is squarely on the roster bubble, regardless of his Olympic predicament. However, we can't fault a young man for chasing a gold-medal dream.