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On Tuesday, the New York Jets, after losing two safeties to injury in four days, called the former Lovejoy High School and Mississippi State standout and told him they needed him.

Contemplating the offer, Fitzhugh, 24, thought about the steady job he had landed three months ago, as a Norfolk Southern railroad conductor, a position he loves.

He thought about his family, about leaving behind his disabled father and hard-working mother.

He thought about the three times that NFL teams previously released him.

And Fitzhugh said no.

His decision ran contrary to what most out-of-work football players would have done.

"Normally in two hours they're on their way," said Daniel Rose, Fitzhugh's agent, of players offered an NFL reprieve. "The kids who aren't in the league right now will do anything. I've never heard of a story like this. He did what he had to do, and I'm proud of him."

Fitzhugh was given the option of taking a leave of absence from his railroad job and pursuing pro football again. For whatever reason, he still declined.

"It's an inspirational story, and we're very fortunate to have such a high-quality individual working for us," said Rudy Husband, Norfolk Southern spokesman. http://www.ajc.com/sports/running-the-o ... 70317.html