Former Ohio State and NFL linebacker Chris Spielman’s efforts to help those having a rough time during the Coronavirus outbreak are paying off–both in money and inspiration.
Now an NFL analyst for Fox, Spielman pledged to sell some of his career memorabilia on eBay and turn the proceeds over to those needy families and individuals who were nominated by fans.
Late last week, Spielman auctioned his 1984 Ohio State Big Ten championship ring for $12,000; a game-worn, autographed Buffalo Bills jersey for $1,125 and his All-Madden Team jacket for $2,565.
Ring went for 12,000 ! Humbled beyond words! Thank you for showing amazing generosity only $21,231.10 to go. #blessed #GodsGifts
— Chris Spielman (@chris_spielman) April 4, 2020
Just talked to the generous man who purchased the ring .. we made a deal : when both of us die .. His family will return the ring to my family! “What u give will grow what keep u lose” #GodsGifts
— Chris Spielman (@chris_spielman) April 4, 2020
Spielman says he’s planning to list an autographed, game-worn Detroit Lions jersey and 1994 Pro Bowl watch on Monday. You can see when they go live here.
—–
Atlanta-based radio sports talk host Chuck Oliver learned of Spielman’s efforts through our story last week and was inspired to help some colleagues who were recently laid off.
Oliver is a long-time collector of vintage cards and is listing one new item from his collection each each day. He’s also telling some stories about the items and his efforts via Twitter.
Yesterday I started auctioning cards to raise $$ to give to coworkers who lost all their income. Got asked, “Not really a card guy, can I just donate?”
YES!
It’s [email protected] at PayPal.
5 donations came in yesterday totaling almost $150. It’s a big help! Thank you!— Chuck Oliver (@kingcfb) April 4, 2020
The first card he put up for bid is a 1967 Topps Brooks Robinson. You can follow his auctions here.
Oliver is planning to divide the proceeds from the ongoing auctions to those hourly workers who suddenly lost their income. He says he’ll continue to place items on eBay each day until those workers are back on the job.