By Declan Williams
The NFL Draft came and went.
I did not hear my name called, and was not signed. That is a tough moment for any player who has put everything into the draft process. There is definitely some disappointment that comes with it.
At the same time, I have learned that this journey does not always go exactly how you plan.
Not being one of hundreds of draft picks doesn’t mean the opportunity is gone. I have been blessed with the chance to keep pursuing my dream, and I do not take that for granted.
I have received two rookie minicamp invites from the Philadelphia Eagles and the New England Patriots.
Those opportunities mean a lot. It is another chance to prove myself, compete and show that I belong at the next level. Nothing is guaranteed, but I am ready to take full advantage of every rep and every moment.
This process has taught me a lot about resilience and faith. It is easy to stay motivated when things go your way, but the real test is how you respond when they do not.
I am choosing to stay focused, stay positive, and keep working.
Along with football, I am also finishing up my last few assignments to graduate, which I am really proud of.
No matter what happens with football, earning my degree will stay with me forever. It represents years of hard work, discipline, and commitment both on and off the field.
Right now, I am chasing two goals at once — finishing my degree and continuing my football journey, and it’s not easy.
This is not the ending of my story. If anything, it is just another chapter. I am still chasing the dream, still putting in the work, and still trusting that everything is happening for a reason.
No matter what comes next, I am ready.
