LA Rams: 4 rookies who need to shine most in training camp

Some believe that the most difficult parts of rookies’ NFL careers are all of the work required to attract the attention of NFL scouts and data analysts to prod them to call out their names on NFL Draft day. I do not share that view. I believe that the most difficult part of their career, when the rubber truly hits the pavement, happens immediately after that moment occurs.

From the moment that their name is called out in an NFL Draft, a rookie’s life alters so dramatically and permanently that many do not fully comprehend the significance. Even as that instant opens the door to the NFL for a young athlete. granting them immediate access to the entire NFL team support systems designed to support every aspect of their future NFL career, everything comes with conditions, strings, expectations.

NFL teams want a return on their investment. After all, even the last rookie on the team’s roster earns a substantial amount, so that translates into a set of expectations by the team that immediately is placed on the shoulders of each new player added to the team’s roster. Of course, in the course of the photo opportunities, immediate rookie draft grade, analysis of fit, and future career, many of these conditions are swept aside in the euphoria. But they remain, albeit in the background.

Playing for an NFL team is a job. From the moment that the contract is signed, that time card gets punched and it’s time to report for duties. From that moment on, rookies are on the clock. They are expected to care for their bodies 24 by 7, including but not limited to sufficient exercise, proper nutrition, adequate hydration, proper amounts of sleep, and avoiding all prohibited substances and activities.

Once rookies are introduced to the coaching staff, meet with their positional coaches, they are not also tasked with demonstrating knowledge of the playbook, proper technique, proper play execution, and following any and all directions from the team’s strength and conditioning program. Then, and only then, do rookies have the opportunity to take the field and shine in positional and team drills.