The NFL draft is a pivotal moment for many college football players, representing the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. For these athletes, being selected by an NFL team is a dream come true—one they’ve envisioned since childhood. It is the result of countless hours of practice, training, and sacrifices, often overcoming injuries and personal challenges along the way.
However, for players who are not selected in the first round and don’t receive a guaranteed contract, the journey is just beginning. The months leading up to the draft are filled with intense preparation, including training for the scouting combine, pro days, interviews with coaches, and visits to teams. The process can be overwhelming, but for those still waiting to hear their names called, the ultimate goal is simply the opportunity to prove themselves.
Kyle Williams, a wide receiver from Washington State, Jonah Monheim, a center from USC, and Tory Horton, a wide receiver from Colorado State, have been working hard at Excel Sports Management’s performance center in Irvine, California, preparing for the draft. While none of them are expected to be selected in the first round, they know the chance to be drafted at any point is a significant achievement.
Williams, projected to be a second-round pick, ran an impressive 4.4-second 40-yard dash at the combine. Last season, he caught 70 passes for 1,198 yards and 14 touchdowns. For Williams, being drafted means more than just personal success—it’s about helping his family and providing motivation for his siblings. “Just knowing that this could become a reality, it’s something that I still can’t believe,” Williams said. “It would mean the world…to help my family and give them motivation to keep going.”
Horton, who had a standout career with over 1,000 receiving yards in both his junior and senior seasons, is aiming to be selected in the third or fourth round. Despite a knee injury that cut his senior year short, he’s healthy and ready for the next step. He reflects on his journey, noting how his experiences have shaped him both as a player and a person. “It kind of all plays out…it molds you and builds you to being that better version of yourself,” Horton shared.
Monheim, a USC center, faces a more uncertain path. He’s projected to be drafted in the fifth round or later, and some analysts believe he may have to sign as an undrafted free agent. However, for Monheim, being drafted would be the culmination of years of training and sacrifices. “It would mean everything,” Monheim said. “I can’t wait for whatever opportunity presents itself.”
Josh Conerly Jr., an offensive lineman from Oregon, has seen his draft stock rise after impressive performances, including a standout game against Penn State’s Abdul Carter in the Big Ten championship. He’s spent months training at Excel’s top-tier facilities, focusing on everything from position drills to recovery routines. “I’m a big tub guy, so I enjoy being in the hot tub, cold tub, sauna, red-light therapy,” Conerly said, reflecting on the care he’s received to ensure his body is in top condition.
As the draft approaches, players like Williams, Horton, Monheim, and Conerly are ready for their big moment. Their dreams are on the verge of coming true, and the next step is to prove themselves in the NFL.
