Kansas City Chiefs' defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi has taken up a unique off-field role as a coach for a rescue puppy, Parsnip, in preparation for Puppy Bowl XXI. Nnadi, alongside his girlfriend, Nani Hinton, has dedicated time to train the spirited mutt, who is on a journey from recovery to fame. Parsnip, previously nursing a broken leg, is now thriving under the guidance of Nnadi, who emphasizes the importance of focus in training.

Nnadi's commitment extends beyond training as he actively engages in local animal welfare initiatives. Over the years, he has contributed to the adoption of more than 500 dogs by covering their fees, showcasing his passion for ensuring that pets find loving homes. His journey with rescue animals began by adopting his own dog, Rocky, which has deepened his empathy towards shelter dogs. The Puppy Bowl, a counterpart to the Super Bowl, aims to highlight pet adoption and raise awareness for animal shelters across the U.S.