Part 2/10:
The narrative shifts to the player's personal journey—his move from the Cincinnati Bengals to the New England Patriots. In 2003, injuries like an MCL tear and a groin injury sidelined him for eight games, at a time when running backs faced heavy carries, sometimes around 800 per season. During his recovery, there was speculation about a trade, notably rumors of being sent to Dallas.
Refusing to let rumors diminish his focus, he prepared to finish his season strong, even telling Marvin Lewis, the Bengals' coach, of his desire to move on. His decision was rooted in a sense that his career was winding down, with only 2-3 years left, and a desire to find a fresh environment committed to winning.