Ex-Gophers standout Ra'Shede Hageman grateful for 2nd NFL chance

A second-round pick in 2014, Hageman spent three seasons with the Falcons before being released in 2017 after a domestic violence charge. He will have to serve a two-game suspenion, which if he makes the Falcons' 53-man roster, includes Week 1 vs. the Vikings.

During the two years away from football, Hageman said he worked out daily at Game Face Training in Maple Grove, as well as maintaining confidence that he would eventually get a second opportunity to play in the NFL. He leaned heavily on mentors DeVentri Jordan (trainer) and Gio Jenkins (his high school coach at Minneapolis Washburn) for advice, and still maintains regular contact with each.

Hageman signed a 1-year deal with Atlanta in April. General manager Thomas Dimitroff released this statement at the time:

"As an organization we believe in opportunities when people take responsibility for their actions and are committed to change. We believe Ra'Shede understands that his conduct was wrong and has learned from his mistakes. He has met the obligations of the court in his prior matters and worked hard over the last two years including community service, intensive course work and rehab. That said, we understand the seriousness of his actions, and he knows we will not tolerate abusive behavior in any form."