When Kareem Hunt walked out of the Chiefs’ practice facility for the last time back in 2018, I bet he didn’t even dream of slipping on that red and gold jersey again. But here we are! Fast forward to now, and he’s back in Kansas City, soaking in all the surprises. “It’s crazy how some things happened to work out,” he said, looking back on this unexpected twist.

It took a week before he was put in the active roster. But now, Coach Andy Reid has confirmed that the veteran will suit up against the Saints. You’ve got to admit, life can throw some wild Hail Marys your way! But just talking about the comeback won’t do the journey any justice if we do not talk about his parents, Kareem Hunt Sr. and Stephanie Riggins, and what this means to Kareem—rising from the trenches.

What was Kareem Sr. accused of?

Kareem Hunt Sr.’s life reads like a cautionary tale from a football playbook, doesn’t it? Born in Cleveland in 1966, he’s faced more than his fair share of penalties—specifically, numerous arrests related to drugs and domestic violence. Reports in 2018 revealed that the older Hunt had faced at least 35 arrests. It’s not a joke.

As USA Today reported, “Hunt has been arrested numerous times in Lorain County, including multiple times for drug-related offenses and domestic violence.” But wait, it gets juicier! In early 2023, Kareem Sr. was arrested again, this time on drug charges. Allegedly caught selling crack cocaine and possessing marijuana, he was found in an Elyria hotel room surrounded by digital scales and cash.

As you’d expect, the family tree has more knots than a quarterback’s throwing arm. While young Kareem has shown promise in the NFL, his father’s history makes you wonder: can the apple truly fall far from the tree? One family member put it bluntly, saying, “He’s a miracle.” It’s a testament to how tough it is to escape the legacy of poor choices, right?

But guess it eventually got to Kareem Jr. as well. Remember when he faced intense scrutiny since the release of a disturbing video in 2018, leading to his release from the Chiefs? “You see the tape and it just kind of breaks your heart,” said Louis Ayeni, his college coach. But through the thick of it all, somehow, the pro football player kept on going. And might just be because of his mom.

Who is Kareem Hunt’s mom Stephanie Riggins?

Behind the fall there was a saving grace for Kareem Hunt and it started with his mom, Stephanie Riggins. Kareem wasn’t just a kid in a normal family. But he sure had a present mother. You see, when Kareem Sr. decided to take a backseat, it was Stephanie who put on her game face, proving that even in the toughest moments, you can rise above.

“What Steph did with Little Kareem was absolutely amazing,” USA Today noted someone acknowledging Steph’s efforts in a 2018 article.  She was the ultimate MVP in his life, juggling her role as a home health aide while raising Kareem and his younger brother, Clarence. Now, let’s keep it real—life hasn’t always been a smooth play for Stephanie. After marrying Deltrin Kimbro, she faced her fair share of penalties, including a DUI in 2014. Kimbro, too, had his challenges, serving time for drug-related offenses.

But don’t let that fool you; these setbacks didn’t stop them from cheering on Kareem from the sidelines. Picture this: a proud mom and her husband, fist-pumping in the stands, supporting their son as he dashes down the field. It’s that kind of spirit that tells you family matters, no matter the hurdles.

So, when Kareem Hunt puts on that Chiefs #29, know that it has taken a lot for him to reach where he is today. Keep your eyes peeled in the stands, too. Who knows, you might spot Stephanie smiling and clapping for her son every time he breaks through the line or sprints for a touchdown.