FRISCO, TEXAS — As the Cowboys rookie mini-camp kicked off today at the Star in Frisco, the top two selections in the 2018 NFL Draft, Leighton Vander Esch and Connor Williams, discussed their first day of practice for their dream team: the Dallas Cowboys.
Vander Esch chocked up when he was asked about defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli stating “ he is definitely different. He is very unique and a fun guy to be around and a fun guy to learn from.” The awe and excitement of his dream being fulfilled was plastered across his face and dictated his emotions. He is a linebacker playing for his favorite team in the national football league.
He will now get to establish a new dream, and set new goals for himself. He knows he has “ big shoes to fill. The legacy they have left at Boise (Crawford, Lawrence “Tank”), and now they have continued to do it here in Dallas. It is that much more of an expectation. “ He knows the expectations to perform that are placed on his shoulders as a first round pick, but he will work to get better and make a name for himself and leave his mark with the Cowboys. He remarked that being here is “everything and more” and that “you have to earn your sport every single day, minute, and hour.” He is ready to earn his star.
Williams is taking the experience in and savoring every moment. He stated, “I understand what the logo represents and it means so much to me. Just to be able to be on the field is such a huge honor. “ He is a humble offensive tackle ready to get to work and do whatever it takes to help his team reach a super bowl. When he walked across the stage after being selected by the Cowboys he joked he would “sleep in the headquarters.” That is the type of player that he is. His dedication and drive to this franchise will no doubt lead to his success in the Cowboys’ offensive scheme.
He voiced his high regards for fellow teammate, Travis Frederick, whom he had the chance to talk with before he was drafted, “I definitely look up to him and use him as a role model. I have heard great things from him from the coaching staff about how much he is a pro on and off the field. I can’t wait to just be able to learn from him. “ He could be next to his mentor in the offensive lineup come fall. A new era for the Dallas Cowboys is beginning.
