Emerging NFL Star from New Jersey Thrilled to Join Kansas City Chiefs

C.J. Hanson, a standout football player hailing from New Jersey, is living out his childhood dream by donning the Kansas City Chiefs jersey. The DePaul Catholic alumnus recently shared his exhilarating journey from waiting anxiously during the NFL Draft to receiving a life-altering call from the Chiefs’ top brass. Hanson’s story is one of perseverance, determination, and a stroke of luck that landed him in one of the league’s most successful teams.

A Dream Come True in the Big Easy

In a heartwarming twist of fate, Hanson’s football journey culminated in the bustling city of New Orleans. After enduring three nerve-wracking days of uncertainty during the draft, Hanson finally got the news he had been eagerly anticipating. Surrounded by his loved ones at his father’s church in Wyckoff, the young athlete was overjoyed to hear the voices of Kansas City Chiefs’ general manager Brett Veach and coach Andy Reid on the other end of the line.

Reflecting on the pivotal moment, Hanson shared, “Being drafted in general is winning the lottery. Especially in Round 7, it’s a coin flip. But for it to be this team? Man, it’s special.” The thrill of joining a team on the brink of NFL glory was not lost on Hanson, who recognized the significance of the opportunity that lay ahead.

From Local Hero to NFL Hopeful

Hanson’s journey from a promising prospect at Patriot League to a budding talent in the NFL is a testament to his unwavering dedication and hard work. Despite the uncertainty of his role in the upcoming Super Bowl showdown against the Eagles, Hanson remains poised and ready to step up if called upon. As he embraces his role as a backup guard, Hanson is determined to learn from the seasoned veterans on the Chiefs’ roster and carve out a path to becoming a starter in the future.

The Road to Redemption: A Lesson in Perseverance

For Hanson, the road to NFL stardom has been paved with challenges and setbacks that have only fueled his determination to succeed. Recalling a pivotal moment from his high school days at DePaul Catholic, Hanson shared, “I was a late sprouter, so my junior year, I didn’t end up playing. And junior years are so crucial for your playing career. Not playing was very hard. Especially on such a good team — we won the state championship that year.” Despite facing adversity early on, Hanson’s unwavering spirit and perseverance eventually led him to his current position in the NFL.

A Rivalry Renewed: Hanson’s Passion for the Game

While Hanson’s focus remains squarely on his journey with the Chiefs, one thing is clear – his disdain for the Eagles runs deep. When asked about his feelings toward the rival team, Hanson didn’t hold back, emphasizing, “I still really hate the Eagles. Like, a lot, a lot.” This lighthearted rivalry adds a personal touch to Hanson’s narrative, showcasing the passion and intensity he brings to the game both on and off the field.

As Hanson continues to make strides in his NFL career, his story serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of perseverance, dedication, and a little bit of luck in achieving one’s dreams. With the support of his family, teammates, and fans, Hanson is poised to make his mark in the league and solidify his place among the NFL’s elite players.

Ryan Novozinsky may be reached at rnovozinsky@njadvancemedia.com. You can follow him on X @ryannovoNFL.