Less than a week ago after being cut from the New York Jets roster, safety Doug Middleton has landed a spot on the Miami Dolphins. An undrafted free agent from Appalachian State, Middleton spent two seasons with the Jets, totaling 33 tackles in just 11 games. Here, when given the opportunity, he gave it his all.
Despite suffering season-ending injuries, Middleton worked hard, persevered and never gave up. He was constantly rehabbing and vigorously training to be the best he could possibly be.
Perhaps, what was most admirable about Middleton was his off the field accomplishments. Middleton founded Dream the Impossible to honor his late friend A.J. Morrison who battled depression and sadly passed away. Their mission aims at “helping kids realize that their dreams are not impossible”. The Dream the Impossible foundation is an initiative aimed at bringing awareness to mental health and help those from underserved communities and populations who suffer from certain issues through speaking engagements and various activities. Middleton has participated in walks with the National Alliance on Mental Illness, held numerous events with his foundation, served as a panel member for building mental wellness, worked with the NFL’s Play60 Initiative and so much more. His efforts have earned him the very well-deserved NFLPA Community MVP award.
Middleton is a true hero in every sense of the word. He is a class act and embodies what it means to be a game-changer. He is an inspiration to all and the epitome of a good role model. Middleton may be on a different team, but his heart and drive will follow him no matter where the game takes him!