In an interview with Good Morning Football on NFL Network, Las Vegas Raiders running back Brandon Bolden opened up on his family, his battle with cancer, and why he is so excited to join the Silver and Black. A nine-year NFL veteran, Bolden has spent eight years with the Patriots and one in Miami. During that time, he has been known for his special team’s ability where he is one of the league’s best. Signing with the Raiders in the offseason, he reunites with former offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. With over 600 all-purpose yards last season, Bolden could be a factor in 2022.
Brandon Bolden was born to be on the Raiders
Bolden is very well versed in Raiders’ history. In fact, his grandfather Frank Pitts ended his career with the Raiders in 1974. “It’s very important for my family,” he said when discussing how much it means to him to wear the same colors as his grandfather. “The first thing my grandmother did was pull out all my grandfathers’ stuff”. This box of old memories included the Raiders rulebook from the 1970s and their dress codes. Needless to say, many Raiders fans would like a look into that box. “Once a Raider, Always a Raider,” said Bolden.
Once a Raider, always a Raider.
New RB @BB_HulkSmash speaks on joining the Silver and Black, his family legacy with the Raiders, and more. (via @gmfb) pic.twitter.com/z7Vo8nceuk
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) April 6, 2022
Bolden on beating cancer
Diagnosed with skin cancer in 2018, Bolden was honest saying “that hasn’t been the easiest part of my NFL career.” While it was diagnosed in 2018, the running back felt a growth on his face as early as 2015. After growing a beard out in an attempt to hide it, it was not until 2018 that he took a hit on that side of his face. He then realized that it was something he should get checked out. “It’s fair to say that hit did save my life”.
Fast forward to 2022 and Brandon Bolden is four years cancer-free. After getting surgery in 2018 to remove the cancerous growth, he was so eager to rejoin his teammates that he was back on the practice field two weeks later. Clearly, a guy who loves football, loves the Raiders, and has already dealt with a lot of adversity, Bolden should be a fantastic addition to the Raiders team in 2022.
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*Top Photo: Maddie Malhotra/Getty Images