New San Francisco 49ers linebacker Kwon Alexander has faced adversity throughout his career. He is coming off a torn ACL which shortened his 2018 season and looks to bounce back from the injury. But that wasn't the first time adversity struck the now-24-year-old player.
Alexander lost his younger brother, Robert, during his rookie NFL season. No one would have blamed him for needing some time away from the game after a loss like that. Instead, Alexander played and played well in a division matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. He registered 11 combined tackles, a pass defensed, an interception, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery in the 23-20 overtime win.
Alexander was the guest on the latest 49ers Insider Podcast and shared what it was like playing in that game after his brother was shot and passed.
"It felt right, but it felt wrong because I wanted to be there with the fam," Alexander told Matt Maiocco. "I know they were going through a tough time, but he always told me he just wanted me to ball, just wanted me to keep doing what I'm doing, so I went out there and played for him.
"He really took over the whole game for me. I feel like he was in my body the whole game. I was making plays that I [wouldn't normally make]. It was amazing, man. I just miss him to death."
Football offered an emotional release for Alexander. It allowed him to put everything else aside and play for his brother, which he continues to do today.
"It was a release, and I just played for him, forever now since I'm playing," Alexander continued. "I'm just going to be playing for him."
Alexander shared how his faith in God has helped guide his NFL path. His love for his brother and faith continue to drive him. That faith got him through family tragedy and last year's injury during a contract year.
Now, Alexander is blessed with a fresh start and a new contract with the 49ers.
You can listen to the entire interview with Alexander below.
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