The NFL season is in full swing, the real referees are back, and so we decided to take a look at who's got the best ink in the league, and hand out awards to those most deserving:
5. The "American Patriot" award goes to Jeremy Shockey
One of the edgiest, most outspoken players in the league…well, that reputation has him sitting on the sidelines so far this year, but Shockey uses his body as a way to speak about his love of the good ol' USA, including the flag and bald eagle design on his upper arm.
4. The "Wow, He Can Actually Justify A Mickey Mouse Tattoo" award goes to Hines Ward
Ok wait…a tough, rugged NFL player with a Mickey tattoo?? Yes, Hines Ward went there, and yes, it actually makes sense for him. His mouse is making the Heisman Trophy pose as it rides along with him for first downs and touchdowns, and it serves as a symbol for his lighthearted personality. For Hines, the NFL is a game, and he never takes anything in life too seriously, and so yeah, that ink is working for him!
3. The "Ink Per Square Inch" Award goes to Chris Johnson
The only problem with getting lots of tattoos is eventually you run out of room! Chris may still have a bit of real estate…somewhere, but he is probably the most extensively tattooed player in league history. Well, at least for as long as he plays, there's always contracts to ink, am I right?! Anyone?…I'm sorry that was terrible.
2. The "Screw You, I'm Getting One Too" award goes to Rex Ryan
Who says only players get to have ink? The always entertaining and often needlessly honest Jets head coach admits he got the design on his calf as part of a "midlife crisis," but hey, who are we to judge? We'd say it's a much better way to act out than with a Corvette and a divorce!
1. The "Most Fitting and Awesome Tattoos in the League" award goes to Rey Maualuga
The Hawaiian native bears some awesome, culturally significant designs that speak to his Samoan heritage and help make him an intimidating sight on the field. Apparently he has a message inked on him to that speaks to everyone who's ever gotten a tattoo. It reads "Never regret anything, because at one time, it was exactly what you wanted." Thanks for that bit of wisdom, Rey!
