Players across the country are currently working to reach the next level with the NFL draft approaching.
One of them is former Syracuse defensive back Isaiah Johnson, a guy enjoying the ride on his way to what he hopes is a long NFL career.
“Coming towards the back end of this long process, I say try to enjoy every moment and tell myself that I'm really living out my dream right now, getting a chance to chase my goals of going to the NFL,” Johnson said after Syracuse's pro day Monday.
Johnson is coming off a solid pro day performance in March just weeks after participating in the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, where the lights were bright but not a distraction.
“I felt like a kid in a candy store walking around, seeing Lucas Oil Stadium and everything like that," Johnson said. "It's one of those things where the moment felt big for a second, but at the same time, it was my hard work and my goals being manifested since I was a little kid. The biggest surprise was the medical ... they probably know more about my body than I know about my body at this point. But still, it was great experience and I’m definitely having fun.”
After playing his college career at cornerback, some draft experts and scouts might see him as a safety in the NFL. Johnson sees himself as a corner, but is willing to do whatever it takes to make a roster.
“Whatever team sees me as a safety or a corner and if that's what they want from me, then that's what I'm willing to do," Johnson said. "Like I said, I'm a football player. I just want to hit that field and play the game that I love.”
Johnson says if he gets the opportunity, he won’t disappoint.
“I know this process isn't over yet, and so I'm just [keeping] on working, keep on grinding, wait for my name to be called either on draft day or maybe even as a free agent," he said. "And then once I get my chance, I'm in that door, they’re not getting rid of me. So that's the goal."