Former Vikings defensive back Husain Abdullah and his brother, Hamza, are taking a break from their NFL careers to make Islam's holy pilgrimage to Mecca in October.
They will participate in the Hajj. which every Muslim who can afford it is expected to do at some point in their lives. According to Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio, Husain Abdullah turned down several NFL offers this season, including one from the Vikings.
"I visited Makkah, Saudi Arabia in March and a strong sense of urgency overcame me to attend 'Hajj' in October," Husain told PFT. "I love the game of football but, it would directly coincide with my pilgrimage. So, I'm taking some time off."
Here is the full report.
In addition, the Hussain brothers are planning to travel around the United States during Ramadan, the Islamic month when Muslims fast from sunrise to sundown, and visit 30 mosques in 30 days. They currently plan to visit the Masjid Al-Tawba mosque in Eden Prairie on July 30 or 31.
The Abdullahs are using the website Kickstarter.com to raise money to have a documentary filed on their travels. Entitled the "Want For Your Brother What You Want For Yourself Tour," Husain and Hamza, who played for the Cardinals last season, are trying to raise $40,000 through the website in the next few weeks.
On Kickstarter, fund-seekers describe their project, ask for money and receive it only if the funding goal is met.
Here's a video about their efforts:
