Now for an update in the unlikely journey of Brian Banks. Wrongly imprisoned for rape for five years, the former high school football star is now free to pursue his NFL dream. More than a few teams have come calling.
Add the Kansas City Chiefs to that list. U-T San Diego reported Banks will stage a workout for coach Romeo Crennel and his staff next week. Banks has already been invited to participate in minicamp with Pete Carroll and the Seattle Seahawks.
The 6-foot-4, 225-pound linebacker tried out for the San Diego Chargers on Friday. Banks left without a deal, but his attorney said the Washington Redskins, Minnesota Vikings and San Francisco 49ers would like to work him out. Banks told U-T San Diego the recent whirlwind represents a victory once unimagined.
"The biggest thing for me ever has been to obtain and secure my freedom. I've already won. Regardless of what happens, I'm already rich. I'm already here," Banks said.
"Two weeks ago, I was sitting at home, just being hopeful that I could secure my freedom. Now, I've had a flight to Seattle. I've been out here in San Diego. I had a chance to work out with coach (Norv) Turner. These opportunities are something I'll cherish for the rest of my life."
You might wonder what sort of shape Banks is in after five years in prison, but he hasn't lost his speed. He clocked in at just under 4.7 seconds in the 40-yard dash with the Seahawks.
Banks won't have an easy time making an NFL team, but he's embraced the challenge. We can't help but root for him.
