Tyler Scott arrived in the NFL with a chip on his shoulder. While he was thrilled to get drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 4th round, he felt he didn’t get enough respect from other teams. That is why he’s motivated to play far beyond his draft slot. One of the best things he can do is get advice from players that have found success in the league. They know more than anybody the sacrifices it takes to be great in this game. That was where an NFL collaboration with Fanatics led to one of the most memorable moments of his young career.
They met with several incoming rookies and asked them who their favorite players were growing up. Then through some legwork, they managed to get those players to send video messages to the rookies with advice and motivational speeches. It turns out Scott was a huge fan of former Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson. The future Hall of Famer had one piece of advice for the wide receiver, and it immediately brought him to tears because it was the same thing his father had told him for years.
Tyler Scott understands the fundamental reality of the NFL.
Having great talent is only part of the puzzle. What separates successful players from everybody else is how hard they work. The sacrifices they’re willing to make. Peterson was a freak of nature, but people never fully grasped how much of a gym rat he was. The guy was relentless. Bears fans hated him on Sundays, but they had to respect him. He ran with power, speed, and never got tired. That is the mentality Scott will have to embrace if he wants a bright future in this league.
Early signs suggest the rookie is using his time wisely. He’s looked sharp in OTAs and appears in top condition. Matt Eberflus will find that out when training camp begins. The Bears’ head coach is already notorious for his intense practices. Tyler Scott will find out how prepared he is. If he accepts the challenge, Eberflus will remake him into a true weapon. His mixture of speed and running back background could make for a receiver defenses won’t like playing against.
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