MIAMI — Newly elected National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) Executive Director DeMaurice Smith spent most of the week of Super Bowl XLIV making the rounds with the players and the media, talking about his new leaguewide responsibilities and the possibilities for labor unrest.
But when it came time for the 11th Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration, he was among the thousands who crowded into the downtown James L. Knight Center for an evening of inspiration as well as proclamation of their faith in Jesus Christ.
“This agrees with my spirit,” Smith said. “We’re not talking about work or problems or anything tonight; we’re talking about faith. Being the executive director of the NFLPA is what I do, it’s not who I am.”
Among the players who gave their testimonies were Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb, New York Jets wide receiver/returner Brad Smith and recently retired New England Patriots defensive lineman Don Davis, with 2006 Super Bowl MVP Hines Ward announcing some of the singing groups.
“With all the glitz and the glamour of South Beach this week, people think they give up their fun when they have faith,” Davis said. “But we know Jesus wants you to have fun, but do it the right way.”
The resounding three-hour concert featured the 40-member NFL Players Choir with some of football’s best players singing their praises to God. “I just want to give praise to God and stay in my lane,” said choir member Michael Gaines, a Cleveland Browns tight end.
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