Oklahoma linebacker Eric Striker did not get drafted during the 2016 NFL Draft. But, he still managed to make positive waves with an impassioned speech to his supporters that was broadcast on ESPN.
For college players, the NFL Draft is a cauldron of emotions. And
No matter where a player is expected to be selected – if at all – the selection process has to be one of the most emotionally taxing events in an athlete’s life. When the process is complete, it’s a moment of triumph for the players who will see their careers continue at the highest level of the sport.
Unfortunately, for others it’s a moment when the realization sinks in that their careers may be over. But as they say, the measure of a man is how he handles adversity, especially when it comes to consideration to play and compete at the highest level of a given sport.
Oklahoma Sooners’ linebacker Eric Striker was one of those players who reached a cross-roads of sorts, because he was not selected during the draft. And in true Eric Striker fashion, he had plenty to say about it.
But, rather than express anger, Striker gave a heartfelt speech to the many supporters who gathered to watch the draft and support him. Striker expressed humility, gratitude, and an incredible sense of perspective for someone so young, especially when one considers the constant immature antics coming from college and professional athletes.
Eric Striker showed the world that, during one of the toughest moments of his life, he handled adversity with grace and dignity.
NFL teams spend countless hours measuring players physically and mentally, trying to identify the next hall of fame prospect who will lead them to gridiron glory. But it is perhaps the intangibles that are the most difficult to get a handle on for NFL scouts and player personnel.
Who are the born leaders who will ignite a locker room with their passion and dedication? Who will be an example to other players of what it truly means to be a professional? That’s hard to measure.
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In Eric Striker’s case, he made the NFL personnel wonks’ job easy. This speech was a window into Eric Striker’s mind, his demeanor, his attitude…anyone who thinks Striker is not a born leader is either tone deaf or simply refuses to listen.
Happily, at least one NFL team is willing to gamble on Striker’s potential: The Buffalo Bills signed Striker as an undrafted free agent.
Now, Striker faces an uphill climb, since most undrafted free agents do not make NFL rosters. But here’s to hoping Eric Striker makes the Bills’ roster and has a long and productive NFL career.
No matter what happens on the football field, there’s no doubt Eric Striker will make a positive, lasting impact no matter what the future holds for him.
The measure of this man is indeed substantial, and no matter where Eric Striker’s career takes him, Sooner Nation can say with pride that he is one of our own.