A Few Seconds of Panic: A Sportswriter Plays in the NFL | Random House

What this book is about

A Few Seconds of Panic follows a writer who swaps newsroom routines for helmet, cleats, and turf, pursuing rare access to an NFL team's training camp and a stint on the field with the Denver Broncos. The narrative blends curiosity, humor, and careful reporting to reveal how a modern football operation functions.

Inside an NFL season, through a journalist's eyes

Over more than a year of preparation, the author molds his body and mindset to endure NFL-style drills, then steps behind the scenes for three months as a placekicker. The result is a vivid, reciprocal exchange between observer and team.

• Unprecedented access to players, coaches, and staff
• A candid voice that mixes wit with empathy
• A hybrid of reportage and memoir, with attention to routine and ritual
• Attention to training, timing, and the strategic mindset of a pro squad

Why readers might pick this up

The New York Times described it as "an insightful and amusing look at the inner workings of pro football." If you enjoy behind‑the‑scenes storytelling, you may find a thoughtful, human lens on ambition, teamwork, and the pace of the game.

• Gives a tangible sense of what practice and preparation feel like
• Offers human moments that accompany the sport's competitive edge
• Conveys how a team negotiates pressure, goals, and camaraderie
• Suitable for readers curious about sports culture beyond highlights

Whether you’re a long-time football fan, a student of journalism, or someone who loves a well-told, human story about sport, this book offers a nuanced view of life near the line between performance and everyday life.