The blessings keep flowing for Josh Jacobs and he’s taking full advantage of them.
After having a successful rookie season in the National Football League and snatching his first endorsement deal with Sleep Number, the former Alabama running back was featured in a major Super Bowl commercial for the All-New Kia Seltos AWD SUV. The setting of the ad is in Jacobs’ hometown of Tulsa, Okla. In the commercial, the No. 24 overall pick of the 2019 NFL Draft (Las Vegas Raiders) is driving around and then he sees his younger self running in the streets.
As a child, he grew up homeless with his siblings and his father did everything he could to protect them.
In wanting to provide a better life for him and his family, football became Jacobs’ saving grace as he ran with purpose and anger from high school to the University of Alabama.
He became a fan favorite at Bryant-Denny Stadium in his three years (2016-18), helping the program capture two Southeastern Conference Championships and a College Football Playoff national title.
With his younger self in the passenger seat, the older Jacobs shares words of encouragement.
#GiveItEverything #ad pic.twitter.com/L7rdqPKvSS
— Josh Jacobs (@iAM_JoshJacobs) January 29, 2020
“I would tell myself, ‘Josh, it’s going to be hard growing up homeless, but you have to believe in yourself,’” Jacobs said. “Be tougher than the world around you and that field is your proven ground. Push yourself to be someone… And I promise someday, you will.”
As he speaks to himself, the elder Jacobs pulls out a helmet and gives it to the child.
The segment of the commercial is called “Tough Never Quits” and Jacobs is partnering with Kia to promote Yards Against Homelessness.
According to its website, more than 4.2 million children struggle with homelessness.
To fight this, Kia is donating $1,000 a yard in the Big Game. Proceeds will benefit Covenant House, StandUp for Kids, and Positive Tomorrows.
But together, we can make an even greater impact. To help, text HOME to 41444 for a donation link.
From enduring hardships to helping others succeed, Jacobs is a special young man.
Recently, he paid the greatest respect to his father in buying him a new home.
Greatness awaits the former three-star in the future and he is prepared to be the best version of himself.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
