With the XFL branding themselves the “league of opportunity” Brad Wing took full advantage in 2023. Six years after his career with the Giants and seemingly his NFL career was over, Wing was thrust into action once more as the Steelers called upon him to replace Pressley Harvin in week 4 of the NFL season.
Wing’s journey has been one for the headlines since coming into professional football, the Aussie punter had stops with the Eagles and Steelers from 2013 to 2014 before finding a home with the New York Giants in 2015. After three seasons (48 games) with the Giants, Wing found himself out of the NFL and punting in Memphis for the AAF’s Express before once again being released after 3 games in Charlie Ebersol’s failed league ceased operations.
After Wing’s release from the AAF, the LSU alum dealt with mental health issues, and substance abuse issues before committing himself to rehab in 2021. His story was highlighted in the XFL’s “Know My Name” series revealing to the team about his struggle with substance abuse, his mental health struggles and his new-found sobriety.
Now several years later Wing is back in the NFL, serving as a positive role model for not only his son but for millions of people around the world struggling with Mental Health issues. Though the Steelers lost in week 4 against the Texans Wing put together a solid effort averaging 47.6 yards per punt, on Five attempts. While it’s unclear if Wing’s 2023 season continues once Pressley Harvin is healthy enough to punt, the fact he was able to make his return to NFL is inspiring to say the least. Currently the XFL has seen over 60 players earn NFL contracts from the 2023 season with Wing becoming the 2nd player from this class to appear in an NFL game.
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