Buffalo Bills running back CJ Spiller has insisted that he is fully focused on his team duties having returned to practice after a week off to deal with personal issues.
Spiller missed last week's training after his step-grandfather was accused of shooting four people in Lake Butler, killing two of them before turning the gun on himself.
Spiller thanked the team for their support during a difficult period and insists that he is now ready to turn his focus back to on-field matters.
"My running back group, Fred [Jackson] was the first one that knew. He came right up to me and he held his support. Coach [Tyrone] Wheatley was [also] up there talking to me and giving me support, just letting me have some moments to myself," Spiller told reporters.
"I understand that it is a tragic event that took place and it's going to take a while to cope with, but at the same time I can't forget the task and the goal and the dreams that we have here as a team and an organization.
"Once I touch the field, my main focus is football. That's how my whole family wanted it. That's how my mum wanted me to do. She told me when I come back to make sure my focus is on getting ready for New England."
The Bills will start the regular season at home to the New England Patriots on Sunday.
Barney Corkhill
