As the Arizona State Sun Devils prepare for the 2026 college football season, freshman running back Cardae Mack carries the memory of his late father, Nathan, with him. October 5 marks the first anniversary of Nathan's passing due to a hemorrhagic stroke, a day that weighs heavily on Mack as he navigates his new life in Tempe.
"Sometimes, it's hard to wake up," Mack shared, expressing the emotional toll of his father's absence. He acknowledges the challenges he faces but also emphasizes the importance of his family, particularly his mother, Camilia. Mack stated, "I feel like I've gotten a lot better with handling the situation and not being so worried about my family back home, because I feel our brothers have it handled better." This resilience is a testament to the support system that surrounds him.
The loss of Nathan has profoundly impacted Mack, who had always envisioned his father cheering him on from the stands as he scored touchdowns in a Sun Devils uniform. Reflecting on their relationship, he said, "My dad was everything. He taught me everything I knew, and for me to lose him, it did hurt." This emotional connection fuels Mack's determination to succeed on the field.
Despite the grief, Mack finds motivation in his father's memory. "There are days where I wake up, and I just don't feel like doing it, but at the same time, I got to do it because this is what he would want me to do," he explained. This drive is further supported by his mother, who has been a steadfast presence in his life, acting as both a parent and an agent as he navigates the complexities of college football, including Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals.
Mack, who hails from Houston and is the youngest of eight siblings, has developed a close bond with his mother, especially after the loss of his father. Camilia's encouragement and support have been crucial as Mack transitions to college football. "My mom has just been my rock and holding me tight, why I come out here and do what I do," he said, highlighting their collaborative efforts in his athletic journey.
As one of the early enrollees for the Sun Devils, Mack has impressed coaches and teammates alike with his performance during spring and fall camps. His previous experience as a quarterback at Atascocita High School, where he amassed 3,500 total yards and 52 touchdowns in his senior year, has accelerated his development as a running back. Mack's understanding of the game from a quarterback's perspective enhances his ability to recognize blitzes and execute plays effectively.
Coach Kenny Dillingham has praised Mack's progress, noting his intelligence and adaptability to the game's speed. "He’s such a great kid. Care level is super high. Great personality. He’s super intelligent. You just see him more comfortable with the speed of the game," Dillingham remarked. Mack's skills have made him a valuable asset in a deep running back room that includes players like Kyson Brown, Jason Brown, and David Avit, all competing for playing time.
With the Sun Devils implementing a running-back-by-committee approach this season, Mack aims to carve out a significant role for himself. Offensive coordinator Marcus Arroyo has expressed confidence in Mack's abilities, stating, "He’s done an awesome job. He’s got the power, burst, the confidence, the balance. His ability to contact and stay on his feet is huge." As Mack continues to develop, he hopes to honor his father's legacy both on and off the field.
Leave a Comment