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

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."