Amobi Okoye attempting comeback after illness cut career short

Amobi Okoye appeared destined for greatness in 2007, when he became the youngest player ever to be drafted. Instead, his career came to a crashing halt, in large part due to a medical condition that caused recurring seizures, forcing him into a medically induced coma.

Now back to full health after being away from the field since 2012, the defensive tackle is attempting a return to the NFL.

"The illness happened and I really beat it," Okoye said to Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle. "I'm feeling really good. My doctor has cleared me for full-contact football since August of 2014. I'm working hard to get back in the NFL. I've always felt a passion for working out and my recovery has gone very well. I've been going through my normal training regimen. I'm full-go, training hard and waiting to get that call to get back on a team. I'm still fairly young. That kind of helps."

At 28, it doesn't appear unrealistic for Okoye to stage a comeback, although teams will likely be skeptical about his skill level after a four-year absence. He's confident, however, that he can make an impact.

"Football is what I love to do," Okoye said. "It's a passion of mine. I'm still young and I can pursue it, so why not play? It's my passion. It's my love. When the time comes and a team calls, I'll be ready. I definitely have a few more years in me to play."

Okoye's story could become one of the most compelling in the NFL if a team takes a chance on him.