Former CFL and NFL running back Kory Sheets has travelled the pro football sphere in North America. Coming out of Purdue, Sheets went undrafted in the NFL, but immediately signed with the 49ers, spending the majority of the 2009 season on the practice roster.
Sheets then joined the Miami Dolphins and rushed on a single play for five yards in 2010. In training camp the following season, Sheets tore his Achilles and Miami released him when he returned from injury.
Next was the Carolina Panthers practice roster, but couldn’t he make the team, so he ultimately went north of the border to play for the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the CFL. Sheets had a 1000-yard season and helped the Roughriders to the Grey Cup, while winning the game’s MVP honours, in 2013. He then signed with the Oakland Raiders in 2014 but tore his Achilles again, and has not return to the pro football scene since.
The well-travelled back gave Last Word on Sports the exclusive opportunity to speak to him about his career, and his time in the CFL.
Cole Shelton: What does the CFL mean to you?
Kory Sheets: Another place to live my dream of playing professional football.
CS: Do you think many Americans overlook the CFL after so many, including you, made it to the NFL?
KS: No, with so many people making it, the NFL is bringing in guys from up top all the time.
CS: What was better in your life, winning the Grey Cup or signing in the NFL?
KS: Winning the Grey Cup. I never really got to deal or play much in the NFL.
CS: Is the CFL tough for American players with the Canadian dollar struggling?
KS: Depends on the person, and their home situation, but it definitely could.
CS: How is rehab going and is there still a possibility you continue to play professional football?
KS: Great and yes.
CS: What player helped you the most in the NFL?
KS: Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown.
CS: What is the difference for you between the CFL and NFL?
KS: Size of the lineman, easily.
CS: Describe Roughrider fans and being the 13th man?
KS: Amazing!
CS: What went through your head when you tore your Achilles again?
KS: Oh no not again [laughs].
CS: Did you recently workout for the Ottawa Redblacks?
KS: Yes I did.
CS: Thank you Kory for doing this, and best of luck in whatever your future holds.
KS: Thank you. You too can be Sheets-like.
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