Michael Mauti

Former NFL Linebacker / New Orleans Saints

New Orleans Saints linebacker Michael Mauti became so fearful of food in recent years that even the thought of a holiday dinner gave him high anxiety.

A year after Mauti went on injured reserve to have his large intestine surgically removed, the 27-year-old has become a triumphant figure to those who have ulcerative colitis or similar inflammatory digestive tract diseases that make everyday life uncomfortable — never mind playing professional football.