What Set Me Free
Discover the powerful story of What Set Me Free, a memoir by former NFL linebacker and motivational speaker Brian Banks. This inspiring book shares the unforgettable journey of a young man who rose above wrongful conviction and imprisonment to reclaim his freedom, pursue his dreams, and find a new purpose in life.
At just sixteen, Brian Banks was a star high school football player, nationally recruited as an All-American linebacker. His future was bright, with dreams of a career in the NFL. But before he turned seventeen, Brian’s life took a tragic turn. Wrongfully accused of a crime he didn’t commit, he found himself facing the California legal system. With little hope for a fair trial, his attorney urged him to take a plea deal to avoid a possible life sentence. The decision led to a six-year prison sentence and nearly a decade lost to an unjust system.
Despite the anger and despair that weighed on him, Brian made a choice that would change his life forever. Rather than succumb to bitterness, he decided to focus on what he could control, turning to self-improvement, spirituality, and resilience. Through this journey, he found clarity and strength, emerging from prison ready to fight for his innocence and rebuild his life.
With the support of the California Innocence Project and a pivotal recantation from his accuser, Brian was exonerated three months before his parole ended. Finally free, he reignited his dream to play in the NFL. At age twenty-eight, Brian achieved that goal, a testament to his determination and unbreakable spirit.
What Set Me Free isn’t just Brian Banks’ story—it’s a message of hope, resilience, and the power of self-belief. For anyone seeking motivation to overcome life’s toughest obstacles, this book is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest circumstances, there’s always a path forward. Brian Banks’ journey from wrongful conviction to NFL success makes this a must-read, and his voice of resilience continues to inspire audiences worldwide. Read What Set Me Free and be moved by a story of courage, faith, and the relentless pursuit of justice and dreams.