KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A former Chiefs running back revealed how a signed team jersey pulled him from despair, sources told ESPN. Now a community advocate, he remains a proud Chiefs Kingdom supporter.
Spencer Ware shared on Chiefs Radio Network: “In 2022, I lost everything to addiction. The only thing I begged to keep was my Chiefs jersey signed by the team — I sold it for $31,000 to rebuild my life. Kansas City didn’t just give me a second chance — they saved me.”
Drafted in 2013 by Seattle, Ware joined the Chiefs in 2015, amassing 1,368 rushing yards over four seasons. His 5.0 yards per carry in 2016 shone, per Pro-Football-Reference.
After retiring, Ware spiraled into addiction, hitting rock bottom in 2022. Hospitalized after a health scare, he credits Chiefs’ support for his recovery, per The Kansas City Star.
Now 33, Ware thrives as a youth counselor in Missouri. His work with at-risk teens echoes the Chiefs’ community spirit, per KSHB, inspiring Chiefs Kingdom.
The signed jersey, inked by stars like Patrick Mahomes, became his lifeline. Selling it funded his recovery, giving him purpose, per The Athletic.
Chiefs Kingdom lauded Ware: “He’s our inspiration!” fans cheered, per local reports. His story uplifts a 12-5 squad eyeing Super Bowl LX after a 40-22 loss.
As training camp looms, Ware’s tale fuels hope. With $11.2 million in cap space, can the Chiefs honor his comeback? Stay tuned to ESPN!