It was the 2021 NFL Draft. On pro football’s swankiest night, prospective first-round pick Greg Newsome opted for attire that made a bold statement – literally. The Northwestern University standout cornerback adorned his tailored black suit jacket with red-stitched phrases such as “Stop Asian Hate” on the right sleeve, “Women Can Ball Too” on the left, plus “Black Lives Matter” and “Say Their Names” on the back.
Greg didn’t need to shine the spotlight on his own accomplishments. His athletic capabilities speak for themselves. Instead, he used the platform to turn attention toward the country’s most pressing social justice issues. The latest police brutality-related deaths in black communities, increased Asian hate crimes, and gender inequality in sports and the workplace were too much to ignore.
“Equality for everyone has always been huge for me,” explained Greg in another article. “So that was something I enjoyed putting together for sure.”
Having grown up on the South Side of Chicago, Greg is no stranger to witnessing the effects of inequality. While he personally was fortunate to commute to Glenbard North High School (about hour away from his hometown neighborhood), he promised himself that he’d do more to support the black community, helping others share in the benefits that allowed him to succeed.
Embracing his dual role
All of Greg’s hard work paid off with him being selected by the Cleveland Browns in the first round of the draft. Over the last two seasons, his speed, agility and intelligence have powered his ability to cover the league’s top receivers and run down opposing ball carriers.
Greg’s off-the-field demeanor is getting noticed, too. He’s been described as respectful, humble and funny. Northwestern coach head coach Pat Fitzgerald compared him to Clark Kent saying: “A really nice guy off the field…and then he goes on the field and becomes Superman.”
At Living Legends Project, we can’t wait to see superhero Greg Newsome continue to wage battle against social injustice and other critical issues. If he uses just half the energy he brings to the football field, we know he’ll be a force for change.
Greg Newsome II is Living Legends NFT No. 445, available on OpenSea.
