First round Tennessee Titans draft pick Jake Locker was not a shoe-in to go in 2011’s first round, but he had been expected to go first in 2010. Locker made a gamble last year and stayed for his fifth year as a University of Washington Husky, turning down the 2010 NFL draft and a high profile spot.
Though he posted significant stats and won a bowl game, Locker saw his draft stock plummet due to inconsistent play in 2010. With his lower position in the 2011 draft and the difference in the rookie salary cap from 2010 to 2011, his decision to stay in school likely cost him tens of millions of dollars in his first contract, but he was committed to completing his education.
Locker’s draft status rose again after favorable reviews from the Combine, Pro Day, and private workouts with the Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks. Locker ended up signing a 4 year deal with the Titans for a reported $12 million.
Coincidentally, the Titans also lured Matt Hasselbeck away from Seattle, and Locker will be backing up the former Seahawks veteran who is projected as the starter going into this season. But rather than a brewing rivalry, Locker and Hasselbeck have already formed a strong relationship.
“It’s been fun,” Locker told the Kitsap Sun, regarding having Hasselbeck onboard. “We have fun in the meetings, in between the meetings. He keeps it light.”
Hasselbeck feels much the same way, “I certainly respect who he is and what he’s all about and his professionalism. He’s a great kid; he’s easy to get along with.”
Locker is excited to be in the NFL, “It’s been a dream of mine since I was a little kid.”
Jake Locker must have dreamed big when he was a little kid. Before passing on the 2010 NFL draft, the University of Washington quarterback/pitcher standout also passed on a career with the MLB. Locker signed a contract with the Los Angeles Angels in 2009 saying that if he played baseball for anybody in the next 6 years, it would be for them. Sadly for Angels fans, Locker stayed true to his first love, football, and has yet to pitch a game in the MLB.
Speaking of love, Locker recently became engaged to his college sweetheart, Lauren Greer, who Locker credits with being “very supportive” of him. Lauren played softball for the University of Washington, and comes from a family of athletes. Her dad played professional baseball in the Padres system, and her brother played football for Idaho.
Jake says , “I have a great support system around me and I’m very thankful for that.”
Aside from statistics, sources say that Jake Locker has intangible qualities that make him a good leader. He comes from a small town and knows the value of helping others in the community.
He is especially loved by his young fans, and has gone out of his way to help kids who suffer from illness. The Tennessee franchise is getting a talented quarterback, as well as a remarkable human being.
