Jordan Congdon's Priorities

Yesterday's Omaha World-Herald had a great article about Husker kicker Jordan Congdon's decision to leave Lincoln and donate part of his liver to his uncle. Say what you will (I certainly have) about his kicking abilities, but this decision shows Congdon's priorities ("God-family-football") are in the right order.

The Lincoln Journal-Star has a different version of the story, though. According to Steve Sipple, Congdon is one of many candidates to provide a liver to his uncle, and there is a "very slim" chance that Congdon would actually be the donor. Also, in recent months, Congdon has lost a grandfather and two friends of the family, so he wants to be closer to home.

Which version of the story is true? Don't know, and does it really matter? Congdon has enough things to worry about in his life that are more important than football. Hopefully, he'll work through them.

One item in the Sipple/LJS article does raise an eyebrow, and that's where Congdon's mother declined comment and referred questions to Bill Callahan, who in turn declined comment. I understand not wanting to talk about it, but it seems curious to say "ask Bill Callahan" about the situation of a player who is leaving the Nebraska program. The interesting wrinkle in this whole situation is that Nebraska has a verbal comittment from kicker Adi Kunalic to join the team this fall.

Is there more to this story? I hope not, other than a happy ending for everyone. In the meantime, prayers and good luck to the Congdon family.