Alex Bachman, a wide receiver for the Las Vegas Raiders, has navigated a tumultuous journey in the National Football League (NFL) since signing as an undrafted free agent in 2019. His tale is one of determination in the face of repeated failures, homelessness, and the unyielding drive to achieve his passion. Despite being waived five times and never making an initial 53-man roster, Bachman has maintained his determination and enthusiasm for the game.
Bachman’s journey to that New Hampshire town started with the Los Angeles Rams, where he quickly found himself in a familiar position. Waived and then sent to injured reserve at the very end of roster cuts, he faced a rough welcome to the pro ranks. His resolve did not waver. Despite making his league debut as a 2020 member of the New York Giants, it was an uphill battle still. Since then, Bachman has played in only a handful of games over the past respective seasons while shuffling between practice squads and teams.
Early Struggles and Resilience
When Bachman made his initial foray into the NFL, he was tossed into the deep end of challenges that nearly every hopeful NFL player experiences. When he signed with the Rams in 2019, he was looking forward to a lifetime future. But injuries hampered his development, forcing him onto injured reserve.
“It’s a gut shot to your ego and pride,” Bachman shared about his early experiences in the league.
His story didn’t stop there as he went on to join the New York Giants in 2021. He only suited up for three games. He was convinced he was on the cusp of a breakthrough, particularly as he hoped to be promoted from the practice squad for a pivotal matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. Unfortunately, that opportunity slipped away.
His mother, Leslie, recalls a pivotal conversation:
“He said, ‘Mom, I think it’s time. I’m not getting a call,’” reflecting his feelings of uncertainty about his future in football.
A New Chapter with the Texans
Bachman’s fortunes shifted when he joined the Houston Texans’ practice squad in 2022. He committed himself to the craft and enriching himself throughout the year, waiting for an opportunity he could step into and fill. His diligence was rewarded when he made a name for himself in training camp before the 2023 season.
In a standout performance against the Cincinnati Bengals in the preseason, Bachman showcased his talent with an impressive 11 catches for 122 yards and two touchdowns. This historic achievement surprised many coaches and fans across the country.
“I know a lot of teams were there [for] the other guys on my team, but I was hoping to blow the doors off it and create some conversation,” Bachman stated about his goal to make an impact.
While these were great achievements, things were still shaky for Bachman and his future with the Texans. After linebacker Brennan Jackson was placed on injured reserve, Bachman finally earned a spot on the active roster—a moment he had long awaited.
Finding a Home with the Raiders
On May 22, 2024, Alex Bachman was signed by the Las Vegas Raiders. Ironically, this push here was a huge pivot point in his career. The move to Las Vegas, while still giving us some obstacles, opened up so many opportunities to grow. He soon established himself as a valuable punt returner and proved his worth immediately on special teams.
In hardly over one full game’s worth of games with the Raiders, Bachman has gained a whopping 94 yards on 15 punt returns. In this novel position, he put his speed and dexterity at realizing change on display. He was a sponge to his more experienced teammates.
“There’s nothing in life that can prepare you for the NFL, but I wouldn’t change anything at the end of the day,” Bachman reflected on his journey thus far.
Even with the difficult reality of perpetual relocation and new teammates always being the norm, Bachman doesn’t let himself get down. He does that by reminding himself quite often that playing professional football is a game, and games are meant to be fun.
“You’re still playing a kid’s game, so enjoy each day,” he advises himself as he navigates this unpredictable path.
The Importance of Support
Through every tumultuous twist and turn, support from his family and friends has been instrumental to Bachman’s resilience. Leslie was the strongest in this regard, urging him to remain resolute towards his intentions while appreciating the needed sacrifices.
“When it came to the NFL, we said, ‘You’re gonna have to chip in. How bad do you want this?’” Leslie recounted their conversations about commitment and determination.
Bachman has to bear heavy financial costs every time she goes from state to state. Shipping his car roundtrip is about $2,000, but he doesn’t let that stop him. It’s his commitment to winning—his relentless will to do what it takes to win at all costs—that causes him to make those sacrifices.
Alex Bachman’s impressive debut toward New York’s building up within the Raiders’ organization. His story is a testament to his artistry and indomitable, unconquered soul in the midst of tribulation. It’s not just his remarkable comeback story — it’s his special ability to rise above setbacks that should inspire aspiring athletes who experience the same.
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