A few weeks ago there was an uneasy feeling amongst Buffalo Bills fans that they were going to lose our leader, Fred Jackson. Josh Bellotti, the creator of the “Keep Fred Jackson in Buffalo” page had other ideas. He wanted him to stay put. So he took to social media and created the page and never looked back. How successful was he in creating this page you ask? VERY SUCCESSFUL! It was so successful that his Facebook page got mentioned in the Buffalo News and ESPN.
As of March 17th, the group has over 7,500 likes. How awesome is that, Bills fans? Pat yourselves on the back. This to me shows the dedication and the love that Bills fans have for their players. How can you not love Fred Jackson? He’s a fighter and a warrior. He plays at 110% at all times even if he has an injury. He doesn’t quit! He’s the kind of player that others should study and learn after. I asked Josh to pose this question on his page. Why do Bills fans love and respect Fred so much? We got quite the response! I’m going to now post many of the fans responses. Enjoy!
NFL Fan Favorites: Fred Jackson
Keep Fred Jackson in Buffalo.: If there is any player I am going to tell my kids about when they’re old enough to understand, Fred Jackson is the first. He’s the perfect role model and someone I would be proud to have my kids look up to. His heart, passion, and leadership are what separates him from the rest.
David Szemcsak : Why is Fred Jackson so important to Buffalo Bills fans? It’s because he embodies the essence of the people who live in the central and western New York region. It’s been said he is not the fastest or the biggest…but he is the toughest. If he hits a wall of men, his wheels spin faster, his legs push harder, his teeth grit tighter, his will pushes him forward two or three extra yards.. That small gain is felt by the fans and his drive and effort gives us small victories to cheer about! We root for him because he had to earn to be where he is! He had to fight to be a Buffalo Bill! His actions in and for the community are genuine.
He is the work truck that was passed up for exotic cars. But an exotic car with dents and dings looses its luster and willingness to drive! Freddy is our work truck with dents, dings and a little rust and when it’s put into 4WD and runs like a tank we step back and applaud with pride and say, that’s my truck! That’s our Freddy!
Debi Moss-Weber : Freddie is REAL. He is what you see, from the proud dad in a lawn chair wearing a hoodie watching his son play, to the machine on the Bills field. He has not let his fame go to his head, he will have a conversation with anyone, sign autographs without hesitation, and tosses footballs with the young kids at HLL. He really is a blessing to the community, and we are proud to have him here.
Phil Masterson : Despite all the injuries Fred has suffered, he was never afraid to take the ball on a big third and short play and slam up the middle. Along with that, there is nobody else who deserves to be captain more than Jackson because of his character. Great player. Great guy. Great role model.
Nicky Loomis : I hope he stays with the Bills organization even after he retires, I’m sure there’s a role for him!
Bobby Engel : I have been a Bills fan since I was 5 or 6 years old (approx. 25 yrs). Everyone always asks me why I like the Bills and well I live in Indiana and started liking the Bills because of the Buffalo on their helmet. I was little and thought it was cool I always think about how awesome it would be to meet a player and then start thinking about who would I like to meet the most and up until a few months ago it was Jim Kelly.
Then while reading an article about Lauren Hill, a local girl with brain cancer that had played her first college basketball at a DIV. III college. I saw where Fred had showed up at the game and met with the girl and her parents. That day made me the proudest Bills fan ever and inked Fred Jackson as top of my list if I could only meet one Bills player period past or current he’s it. (Sorry Jim it was close) Don’t get me wrong I would love to meet Bruce, Thurman, Tasker, Reed, Kyle, Mario, Marcell, Wood or any of the others but Fred is number one in my book. There is something to be said about heart and Fred has it. Good luck Fred
Keith Balch : Freddy is one fine human being and lives and breathes the game of football. As the oldest running back in the league and a walk-on from Coe College, he has a remarkable story to tell and share. I believe he is a great role model for any child dreaming to become a sports star. His attitude on and off the field has inspired me personally to become a better person. If I ever had the pleasure to meet him I would be in my glory and a better man for it. You keep upstate New York proud Fred. Keep inspiring and continue to be you.
Karen Langa : Freddy…a class act.
Louise Muscato-Ramunno : My son Nick is Fred’s biggest fan! We even bring him his favorite cookies, chocolate chip, when we go see the live taping of his show. He is a great guy. So glad we still have him. Nick would be devastated if we lost him.
Jacy Woodworth : Fred Jackson is one if the reasons my son loves to play football! Fred is a true role model and inspires Drew to play his best and wants to play for the Bills just like him!!!
Tony Failla : He represents Buffalo, is hard working, doesn’t give up, tries to prove himself, and is a classy individual.
Jim Pritchard : Fred Jackson is the man I would want my son to be like…other than me.
Richard M. Hoose : Fred is the epitome of Buffalo & Western New York. He is a hard worker, who has proved to the naysayers that he is a star. He has fought through adversity & injuries to where he is today. Just like Buffalo and her rebirth. Fred is one of us and will always be a true Buffalonian.
#OneBuffalo #GoBills
Ben Miller : Fred is a role model on and off the field. One day my kids are going to hear about him. He’s made a name for himself not by recruiting but hard work. I’m glad he stayed and hope he will retire as a Bill.
So as you all can see Fred Jackson is a fan favorite amongst all of Bills Nation. What a story to tell. D3 to the pros. When you hear this it gives you the motivation to be great doesn’t it? It does for me! It’s time for the “BillsMafia” to get ready for the 2015 season. The Buffalo Bills are NO JOKE!
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