Practice Squad Players

PRACTICE SQUAD PLAYERS on NFL teams earn little recognition or reward. But at Christmastime in 2001, Washington Redskins wide receiver Justin Skaggs received the greatest gift of his career.

After Skaggs played collegiate football at Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri, few expected the 6-foot-4-inch, 205-pound speedster to sign an NFL contract. The All-Heart of America Athletic Conference flanker and sprinter first opted for the Tulsa Talons of the Arena Football League. But Skaggs pursued his NFL dream and produced a videotape of highlights. Three NFL teams contacted him. Although the New York Giants and the Seattle Seahawks lost interest, the Redskins inked the former flanker on his 22nd birthday.

A strong preseason showing with three receptions for 57 yards and a 31-yard kickoff return ensured Skaggs a practice squad slot. Although he remained inactive, he practiced with the team, received a modest salary, and waited for the day he would become a full-fledged Redskin.

On Christmas Day, the former Crusader learned his dream had come true. Washington promoted him to the active roster, and Skaggs suited up for the final regular season contest.

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POINT What wonderful words for Justin Skaggs! After months of practice, the unlikely player’s perseverance paid dividends. Justin’s birthday gift was a pro contract. His Christmas gift was a Washington Redskins uniform.

In the Bible, some unlikely people received good news too. God’s angel appeared at night to shepherds guarding their sheep out in the countryside. But the angel’s birth announcement included other people too. The heavenly being’s words echoed throughout the world and throughout time: “A Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.”

GOAL! Did your parents send birth announcements when you arrived? What did they look like? Imagine an angel announcing the birth of God’s Son. Praise God for the good news of the Savior.