Williams back at NFL training with Seattle
Australian defensive tackle Jesse Williams has taken another major step in his fast-track recovery from cancer.
Williams put on pads and a helmet and joined his Seattle Seahawks on the practice field on Thursday just two months after having a cancerous kidney removed.
"Today was the day I kept in my mind the whole time being in the hospital: the first day back, sort of what was driving me," Williams said.
"It was a big deal to get out there today."
The 191cm tall, 148kg Brisbane giant was drafted two years ago, but successive knee injuries meant he is yet to play a regular-season game.
There were fears the cancer diagnosis would end his NFL aspirations, but he says he has never been more determined.
Williams is keen to get involved in full-contact drills and play in upcoming preseason games, but the Seahawks are taking a cautious approach and keeping him to individual drills.
Last week he climbed the 832-step Seattle Space Needle to raise awareness for a cancer fundraiser.
