Thirty-five of the top NFL rookies are in Los Angeles this week making their debut as professionals at the NFLPA Rookie Premiere.
As the players make their transition to the pros, they will be trying on their NFL jerseys for the first time, getting their photos taken for NFL trading cards by Panini America and Topps, and having some sessions with the union to learn about the business side of football. They also have some fun activities along the way, including participating in a fitness program with high school students, playing in the NFLPA Premiere League Flag Football Game and attending a red carpet party on Saturday night.
Pro Player Insiders has exclusive behind the scenes access as the players walk through these events.
The biggest complaint so far has been all the autographs are wearing out the quarterbacks hands, which are more accustomed to throwing 15-yard out patterns than spending hours signing their name.
Nick Foles, quarterback selected by the Eagles in the third round, said, “My hand is really tired right now.”
Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden added, “Yeah, a lot of signing. We had a three hour sessions of just signing different memorabilia – whether its jerseys, cards, whatever.”
But there is an upside. Dolphins rookie quarterback Ryan Tannehill put it all in perspective, saying, “It’s a fun thing. You’re really lucky to be able to get to sign things and to be in this position, so when your hand starts to get tired and you get tired of signing, you’ve just got to think, ‘I’m lucky to be in this position.’ “
Foles also appreciated the upside of the event. “It’s great being around all the guys,” he said. “We’ve been around each other at the Senior Bowl and Combine so we’re around each other again one more time before we hit it and start competing against each other on the field.”
