Football fans all over the world have been rejoicing as NFL teams have returned to the field. 

As they strap up their pads for another season, the memories of the players who once toed the line in the center circle come to mind. Recently, Green Bay Packers defensive linemen Mike Daniels Jr. and Kenny Clark spoke about their days on the mat, and how it prepared them for their lives in the trenches. 

But these big bruisers aren't the only former wrestlers in the NFL. In Denver, wide receiver and punt returner Kalif Raymond is competing for a spot on the team. 

In an interview on the Packers' website, Daniels spoke about his dad getting him involved in the sport and how grateful he is to this day.

"I thank him to this day for it," [said Daniels on Packers.com about his dad signing him up for wrestling.] "Because it builds character."

Daniels also showed his appreciation when the Packers drafted Clark in the first round this year. 

@KCBoutThatLife Another high school wrestler. Welcome to the Pack and let's get to work!! #Packers #NFLDraft2016

— Mike Daniels (@Mike_Daniels76) April 29, 2016

Clark started his wrestling career as a sophomore in high school, but "fell in love" with the sport after a while. 

"The biggest thing I'd have to say is [wrestling] helps you out with leverage and being able to be flexible, to bend," Clark said in the article. "There aren't a lot of defensive linemen who [can] really stay low, bend, get off the ball, and be physical. Not often do you find a defensive lineman who can do all those things."

After looking back on his time on the mat Daniels is certainly thankful for what wrestling has done for him. He even had some advice for young athletes.

"If you're a bigger kid, don't waste your time playing basketball -- go wrestle," Daniels said on Packers.com. "More than likely you're going to be a football player -- if you so choose to seek athletics in college or professional level. Wrestling is going to get it done for you. That's just how I view it."