‘Backpack’ crowned winner of Fat Bear Week
Katmai National Park Ranger Troy Hunt recently joined Lawrence Jones, Ainsley Earhardt, and Brian Kilmeade to applaud Bear 89, affectionately nicknamed ‘Backpack,’ as the champion of this year’s Fat Bear Week. During the conversation, Hunt elaborated on the 16-bear bracket tournament, how ‘Backpack’ got its peculiar name, and emphasized the importance of weight gain for bears in preparation for their six-month winter hibernation.
While many retirees might choose to unwind on a sunny beach or embark on a cross-country RV trip, former Los Angeles Rams offensive lineman Rob Havenstein had other plans. Recently retired after winning a Super Bowl, he set off on a hunting adventure in Alaska, where one might expect the usual moose or elk trophies. But Havenstein, it seems, opted for something more daring.
The 34-year-old ex-left tackle shared a series of photos from his hunting expedition on Instagram, featuring a colossal brown bear. And I mean colossal—it’s really something to behold.
There aren’t too many creatures on this planet that can overshadow an NFL offensive tackle, yet this impressive bear makes Havenstein look small in every shot.
“When I retired, I knew I wanted to go somewhere wild, to step out of my comfort zone and pursue amazing creatures,” Havenstein wrote. “The Alaskan Brown Bear offered that.” His primary aim was to hunt a mature bear, but he took away more than just a trophy: a newfound appreciation for these majestic animals and their stunning habitats.
Havenstein also expressed his gratitude towards those who supported him in his hunting adventure, dedicating much of his Instagram post to the other experiences he enjoyed in Alaska. He included images of the lake where he fished, the large wild salmon he caught, and his camping accommodations.
It truly sounds like a dream for any outdoor enthusiast!
Honestly, I’m not particularly fond of cold weather, yet Havenstein’s vivid photos and tales are tempting me to plan a camping trip to The Last Frontier sooner rather than later.
Even though he’s left the NFL, there’s a glimmer of potential for Havenstein as a possible hunting influencer if he keeps sharing these incredible stories.
Happy hunting, Rob!
