Friend, the NFL season just kicked off, and this time of year always brings back a lot of memories for me. 

People who look like me, who grew up like me, don’t usually make it.

After playing college football for Baylor – where I did well and was team captain – I went undrafted. I was invited to an NFL training camp and eventually got cut.

But I didn't give up. I moved back to Dallas and got a job sweeping floors at the YMCA where I could use the weight room for free after my shifts. I worked hard, got in fighting shape, and when I got a second chance, I made it to the NFL.

I get my determination from my mom – and my Texas roots. I have a deeply held belief that anything worth having is worth fighting for. And that’s the same conviction I’m bringing to this Senate race.

Last year's results don't discourage me; in fact, our campaign outran the presidential ticket by 200,000 votes. Just like with my football career, I’m not giving up after one loss. There’s just too much at stake right now for us to give anything less than our all. 

I know in my bones we can win this. Early polling, including a record-low approval rating for my potential opponent, proves Texans are ready for change. But Republicans spent over $117 million against me last year. If we’re going to finish what we started, it's going to take this grassroots team pitching in whatever you can, whenever you can.

That's why I'm personally asking: Will you dedicate yourself to this fight, help me, and deliver a new generation of leadership for Texans?

I never had the option to give up – and I'm not starting now.

Thank you for your support.

–Colin