LeSean "Shady" McCoy: Former NFL player
LeSean McCoy is a former NFL running back and 2x Super Bowl Champion who played for a total of 12 seasons. After playing at the University of Pittsburgh for only 2 seasons, McCoy was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2009 NFL Draft, making him a 20-year-old rookie and the youngest player in the entire league. LeSean went on to make remarkable impacts on the league becoming the rushing touchdowns leader in 2011, rushing yards leader in 2013, and winning a Super Bowl in each of his last 2 seasons in the league. On Episode 46 of our Catch the Moment Podcast, we were honored to have the opportunity to sit down with LeSean and dive deeper into his story.
McCoy spoke with us about how his upbringing shaped the goals and aspirations he had growing up. “Growing up in the hood I was blessed to have both of my parents, so a lot of stuff that my friends were doing and participating in I couldn’t do because my dad was at home,” says LeSean. His ultimate goal was to succeed so that he could take care of his parents and improve their situation. This fueled his competitive drive and determination from an early age and allowed him to eventually play football at the highest level. LeSean and I connected on the importance of family as we talked about raising our children. We agree that having children makes you think about the little things you say and do that easily rub off on them.
Throughout his time in the league, LeSean learned the importance of constantly evolving and growing as you enter new environments. “You work this hard not to be the same,” McCoy says as he discusses how he regrets not branching out more and taking advantage of the opportunities he had while in the prime of his career. Looking back, he wishes he would have made new connections to grow with, instead of being so adamant about only being around his “Day One’s.” He could have been learning from so many new people and making valuable connections. LeSean also learned the value of keeping people around you who hold you accountable when you make mistakes. The people who love you demand the best out of you because they believe in you and know what you are capable of.
Ultimately, LeSean McCoy’s defining moment has nothing to do with football. “Mine is just being a walking role model to my kids…my kids are set up for life,” LeSean shares as he talks about how proud he is of his children. He wants his kids to see his accomplishments and know that those things are possible for them as well. LeSean’s football career may have ended, but his story is just beginning. He continues to be an inspiration through his success as a businessman and father, and the determination he cultivated within himself from a young age shines through to this day. Give our podcast episode with LeSean a listen to hear his full story!