Article content continued

Jefferson said his parents were still in Beaumont as of Wednesday. Jefferson added that there was some water in the front and back yards, but that the water had not made its way into the house.

“I’m worried, but this isn’t the first time that we’ve had to go through something like this,’’ Jefferson said. “I feel like I don’t need to be there, but with me being away and not being able to be there puts a little stress on me. Knowing that my dad and my brother are safe and my mom is in good hands and my family is being taken care of and in a good spot, takes a little bit off me.’’

The Riders are doing what they can to help ease some of Jefferson’s worries about his family.

“It’s sad to see and I couldn’t imagine being like Willie and being away from your family and your loved ones and knowing something like that was going on,’’ said Riders quarterback Kevin Glenn. “It would be tough to be up here knowing something like that is going on back home.

“Still, you try to help your teammates. You have to be in constant communication with your family just making sure that they are OK. There isn’t anything you can do by leaving and going down there, especially if you’re in a safe place.’’

Riders receiver Duron Carter grew up in Florida where he experienced countless hurricanes and tropical storms. He has learned through those weather events what friends and teammates require in challenging times.

“All we can do is just be there,’’ Carter said. “We’re playing football and it’s supposed to be a man’s game, but you have to be more of a friend and be there for him. There isn’t any telling how it will affect him. He could miss a tackle and it could be from what he’s thinking about at home. As a team we have to come together and show our support for one of our best players.’’