Geno Smith's perseverance captured the hearts of many last season as the Seattle Seahawks quarterback went from Russell Wilson's long-time backup to NFL Comeback Player of the Year.
"I can't say it was tough [being a backup] because I have been so blessed," Smith told reporters in December. "Honestly, my tough times would be a dream to someone else.
"I never will look at it as something that was too hard for me or really tough because throughout that time, I still still enjoying my life and still in the NFL."
While the 32-year-old's words ring true, the competitive fire burns in so many professional athletes.