"Native Americans in our state are proud of Sam Bradford.

He visited the Cherokee Nation in Tahlequah last month on the invitation of Chief Chad Smith.

Bradford is 1/16th Cherokee, and even before his Heisman Trophy season, he often was asked about his heritage.

One problem — he had no idea what his heritage was. Being Cherokee wasn't emphasized when he was growing up.

He could have kept pushing aside questions about being Indian, but he didn't. Late last month, he was honored by the Cherokee Nation and seven other tribes for his athletic feats.

In front of many of his people, Bradford admitted that he needed to learn more.

"God has given me a great platform, and my Native American roots extend that platform even more," he said. "There's a difference between talking the talk and walking the walk."

Get the Story:
Eric Bailey: Bradford connects with tribe (The Tulsa World 5/11)

Related Stories:
Editorial: Sam Bradford a Cherokee class act (1/8)
Bradford, Cherokee football star, wins Heisman Trophy (12/15)
Cherokee football player favored for Heisman (12/10)
Oklahoma players embrace Indian heritage (11/13)
Cherokee Nation embraces star college quarterback (10/13)