Josh Paschal’s journey to the NFL has been one marked by resilience and a refusal to surrender to adversity. While in college, the promising football player’s career was abruptly threatened by a diagnosis of malignant melanoma in his left foot. The news, understandably, dealt a heavy blow to Paschal. The initial shock and emotional weight of confronting such a life-altering diagnosis were immense. However, instead of succumbing to despair, Paschal drew strength from his faith, his support system, and the inspiring words of Jimmy Valvano, whose famous “Don’t ever give up” mantra became a guiding principle in his fight against cancer.
This unwavering spirit, coupled with rigorous treatment and an unwavering determination to return to the field, propelled Paschal forward. He defied the odds, resuming his football career and ultimately earning a coveted spot in the NFL as a second-round draft pick by the Detroit Lions in 2022. He views this achievement not merely as a personal triumph but as a testament to the power of perseverance and the unwavering support he received from his loved ones. Paschal’s story embodies the essence of the Detroit Lions’ ethos – a team defined by its grit, its ability to overcome obstacles, and its unwavering commitment to each other.
For Paschal, being drafted by the Lions feels like destiny. He expresses immense admiration for the team’s leadership, both in the front office and on the coaching staff, describing it as the best he’s ever been a part of. The team’s camaraderie and shared experiences, particularly navigating adversity, have forged a profound bond among the players, creating a unique sense of unity and purpose. This tight-knit atmosphere resonates deeply with Paschal, who cherishes the sense of belonging and shared purpose he finds within the Lions organization.
Head Coach Dan Campbell’s philosophy, which emphasizes that every individual on the team is there for a reason, resonates deeply with Paschal. Having faced and conquered the daunting challenge of cancer, Paschal believes his experience with adversity has uniquely equipped him to contribute to the team’s culture of resilience. He recognizes that every member of the Lions, both players and coaches, has faced their own personal battles, fostering a deep understanding and empathy within the team. This shared experience of overcoming adversity creates a powerful sense of connection and reinforces the team’s identity as one that perseveres through challenges.
Paschal’s commitment to giving back extends beyond the football field. Earlier this year, he proudly represented the Jimmy V Foundation as part of the NFL’s “My Cause My Cleats” campaign. His involvement with the foundation stems from his brother’s introduction and his subsequent research into Valvano’s inspiring story. The “Don’t ever give up” message deeply resonated with Paschal, aligning perfectly with his own experience battling cancer and fueling his desire to support the foundation’s mission. He credits his family, friends, and faith for lifting him out of the initial despair following his diagnosis, providing the strength and encouragement to embrace Valvano’s mantra and persevere through his treatment.
Looking ahead, Paschal remains focused on continuous improvement, both individually and as a team. His goal is to peak performance as the season progresses toward the playoffs, striving to contribute to the Lions’ pursuit of their first Super Bowl victory. He acknowledges the team’s recent defensive struggles, emphasizing the importance of bouncing back from setbacks and maintaining a forward-looking perspective. This resilience, he believes, is a defining characteristic of the Lions, and it is this unwavering determination that fuels their hopes of achieving ultimate success. Paschal’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s capacity to triumph over adversity, fueled by faith, perseverance, and the unwavering support of those who believe in him.
