Marcus Cannon Says It Was 'Awesome' to Make NFL Debut Against Chiefs

Marcus Cannon Says It Was ‘Awesome’ to Make NFL Debut Against Chiefs

by Jeff Howe on Tue, Nov 22, 2011 at 1:32AM

FOXBORO, Mass. — Patriots rookie offensive lineman Marcus Cannon made a surprise appearance on the field late in Monday's 34-3 victory against the Chiefs.

Cannon played right tackle during New England's final possession of the fourth quarter and helped the Patriots get into the end zone. Cannon, who beat non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma this year, wasn't really expecting to make his NFL debut Monday, and his teammates didn't know it was coming, either.

"Seeing him in there was a little bit of a surprise, but when you dress for a game, you've got to be ready to go," right guard Brian Waters said. "So I think he did a pretty good job."

Cannon began the season on the non-football injury list and was able to start practicing last month. He was activated to the 53-man roster last week, and Monday marked his first opportunity to dress for a game.

"It's good to have Marcus out on the field, period," Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said. "He's been out there for about a month now. He's worked hard, and I'm glad he's getting an opportunity to play. He's got a long way to go, but he took a step [Monday], I think."

Cannon said it "was awesome" to get his first NFL action. He's spoken to the media a few times in the last month, but he doesn't like to dwell on his story.

"Of course, my story will always be there, and I thank God every day," Cannon said. "I am blessed, and there is no way of putting it behind you. I am just looking forward to playing football."