For some players in the NFL, their careers never seem to be able to get off the ground. When you consider how some players are just scraping by for an opportunity to get a shot at camp, one injury can end it all.

The hope is that isn’t the story for Pittsburgh Steelers Alfonzo Graham. The former HBCU running back made an impression with the team during rookie minicamp, but when he reported to training camp at Saint Vincent College he landed on his shoulder awkwardly.

He was seen the following day in a sling, and head coach Mike Tomlin said his shoulder would need further evaluation. According to Graham himself, he suffered a torn labrum, ending his season before it ever began.

This per Graham’s Instagram page:

“You know adversity lives in my life and I always overcome every situation that comes my way. This will be the first time in my career that I won’t be able to play football in the fall due to me suffering a torn labrum in my shoulder. It’s tough and heart-breaking, but I’m God’s child and he always puts his toughest child through the most. I’m glad it happened early in my career for me to learn to get faster and stronger. It definitely will be a long process, but I’m ready for the challenge. I promise to never give up and soon will be back becoming an NFL legend. I’ll see y’all soon.”

The news of Graham’s injury, and likely impending surgery, would also makes sense of the Steelers hosting a free agent running back Monday. With Graham injured, it now opens the door for another player to potentially make the team’s roster.

Expect the Steelers to announce Graham being moved to the Reserve/Injured list in the coming day, at least before the team’s Tuesday practice. Tuesday’s workout will be the first padded practice of training camp for the Steelers, and we’ll have everything ready for you right here at SCN.