Starin' at Darren

Today's Monday Man is Darren McFadden, a 6'2", 210-pound running back. The 23-year old was born in Little Rock, and after playing football for the University of Arkansas was drafted fourth overall by the Oakland Raiders in 2008, who promptly signed him to a $60.1 million contract.

McFadden had a rough road to the NFL. The tenth of twelve children, he grew up in one of the most gang-ridden neighbourhoods in the country (it was once featured in the HBO documentary Gang War: Banging in Little Rock). In fact, one of his brothers was in the Crips, while another belonged to the rival Bloods. His mother was addicted to crack (her supplier was another one of her children) and has said "Drugs were a way of life for us." 

McFadden credits sports for keeping him clean and out of gangs in high school, but he did have some difficulties in college, including some arrests and injuries in bar fights and several paternity suits before his 21st birthday. Those who know him, however, insist he's a gentle soul who loves making people laugh.

Since starting his professional career McFadden has had some ups and downs on the field, but this year he was off to the best start of his career. Before yesterday's game against the Houston Texans he was one of the leading rushers in the NFL, meaning he had been playing very well indeed. Unfortunately he injured his hamstring in the game and there's no word yet on how long he'll be out. He's listed as day-to-day, so hopefully he'll be back lighting up our TV screens by next weekend. Until then, enjoy the pictures!