My career is not going to be about Super Bowl rings and, you know, even unfortunately,

lots of playoff appearances or anything like that.

It's going to be about the relationships that I've made and in the different stops I've

made, the impact I've had on people's lives.

And I think my career has been very, very unique and maybe we've got to create a new category.

I'm Chris Long, and this is American Prodigies, becoming great.

On this podcast, we highlight the fascinating career journeys of current and former football players.

Each episode, we take you on a trip through a player's life and along the way, explore what it

means to be great. Because greatness comes in all shapes and sizes, and every path is one of a kind.

Today, we're breaking down the story of a player who's had a career like no one else.

From the hallowed halls of the Ivy League to the National Football League, he's been down a

winding path, getting knocked down, picking himself back up, and exceeding expectations

along the way. What he's accomplished is nothing short of record-breaking. All in all,

this guy has carved out a unique place for himself in the history of our league, out of sheer

grit and force of will. Plus, he can grow about the sickest beard you could ever imagine.

Our subject is, of course, Ryan Fitzpatrick.

Ryan grew up in Gilbert, Arizona, just southeast of Phoenix.

Star high school athlete in baseball, basketball, and football, a true competitor. He was obsessed with being the best at everything and never wanted to come out of the game,

even when he was hurt, perhaps a result of having twin brothers a year and a half older than him

who are also very athletic and competitive.

At Highland High School, Ryan was already showing hints of fits magic.

Coach Mike Reardon told the New York Post,

...