Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, who spent 11 seasons within the NFL, revealed earlier this month that he spent the primary two years of his profession residing within the Cincinnati Bengals’ stadium.
The admission got here whereas chatting on the “Club Shay Shay” podcast with host and NFL Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe.
Johnson, who was drafted by the Bengals in 2001, mentioned the choice got here from him wanting to save cash throughout his early years within the league.
“You gotta remember, I stayed at the stadium the first two years because I didn’t want to spend no money,” Johnson mentioned, per CNN.
“What’s the point? Why are you telling me to go rent a house, go buy a house, or go rent a condo when everything I need is right here in the facility?” he added. “Showers, cafeteria, TV, couch, gaming system. What’s the point? I was so locked in. It wasn’t about having my own space.”
Johnson went on to elucidate how this grounded method helped to put the inspiration for his profitable profession, saying he wanted that first 12 months to rise up to hurry with the remainder of the NFL, after which bought right into a “rhythm” in his second season.
The dedication paid off, as Johnson would go on to make six Pro Bowls and seize nearly each Bengals receiving report throughout his profession.
He turned recognized for his signature landing celebrations, certainly one of which featured him famously “putting” the soccer with a pylon and fist-pumping, in an ode to Tiger Woods.
Johnson legally modified his final title to “Ochocinco” in 2008, referencing his 85 jersey quantity, however later modified it again to “Johnson” in 2012.
He instructed Sharpe on the podcast that coach Marvin Lewis finally satisfied him to maneuver out of the stadium and get his personal place, however that he by no means purchased costly jewellery or bought caught up in spending cash unwisely, like different NFL gamers generally do.
“There is nothing I can buy that’s bigger than my name alone,” he said, estimating that he was in a position to save over 80% of his profession wage.
“Everybody is caught up in image, and looking a certain way, being rich. It’s pointless,” Johnson mentioned.
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Source: www.bostonherald.com