He wore a walking boot for two and a half months. Once that came off, his rehab program -- which took place at both his alma mater, the University of Louisville, and at One Bills Drive -- became more dynamic, with exercises geared to promote balance. After four or five months, the 310-pound Wood was running on anti-gravity treadmills, in Louisville and at the Bills' training facility, "that take some weight off you, so I can run like I weigh like the receivers weigh, which is a lot easier on my limbs."

Time. Sweat. Pain. Patience. Wood poured them all into the process.

But it wasn't only a matter of physical endurance. There was a great deal he had to endure mentally as well.

Wood was a solid, 31-year-old pro, but his worth was now being determined by a new coaching staff. Would the fact he was trying to come back from the second broken leg of his career be held against him? Would the fact the Bills still managed to lead the NFL in rushing with Ryan Groy taking his place at center for nearly half the season make him seem expendable?

The good news, as far as Wood was concerned, was that his right leg cooperated, just as his left leg did eight seasons ago.