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The Arizona Cardinals are playing their first preseason game of 2012 in the backyard of where Beanie Wells grew up. Wells was born in Akron, Ohio, just minutes from the NFL Hall of Fame, and Fawcett Stadium, where the Cardinals will be playing against the New Orleans Saints to kick-off the NFL preseason this year. "I remember playing in that stadium in high school, and going to the Hall of Fame," Wells said.
The only negative to this trip back home is that Wells is still recovering from off-season knee surgery, and will not have the opportunity to play in the game. When asked about not being able to play Wells said, "It will be tough, real tough," because he was looking forward to playing in front of his home crowd, including friends and family, who some have never had an opportunity to see him play as a professional.
"It sucks that I'm not able to play, going back home. You know I haven't played in Akron since high school days, but it is what it is." Beanie Wells
Wells' eyes lit up, when asked about going back home, and he became very animated when talking about his plans while in Ohio. "I'm just excited to get back home and see family. First and foremost to see my kids." You could just tell by his body language and response that Wells is a loving family man, and has a real fondness of the area where he grew up. He even promoted a local burger joint that he must have frequented as a child, or perhaps has a vested interest in. "If you guys get a chance, go to Swensons Burgers, best burger place you guys ever had," said Wells.
As far as his recovery, Wells says that he is "feeling good," and getting to where he needs to be. He has been rehabbing his knee, and has been placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list ever since training camp began. Wells is expected to start practicing with the team perhaps as soon as next week. It's just unfortunate that Wells is not far enough along in his recovery to perform for the fans, friends, and family members that have helped him become both the player and the person that he is today.