2008 Draft Day…inside the “war room”

Draft Day 2008, or maybe it should be Draft Weekend 2008. Saturday is the opening day for eligible players (mostly just out of college) to be selected by NFL teams. Each team will have a pick during seven rounds. Their position in the draft is based on a couple of different factors such as their ranking the previous year and/or prior deals made with other teams. When it’s their turn, the team goes “on the clock”, meaning when it is their turn they have 15 minutes to make their selection (15 min. in the first round-in the second round it’s just 10 minutes, and then in the remaining rounds, it’s 5 minutes). To some fans, it’s the greatest day, other than Super Bowl Sunday, during the calendar football year. To others, it’s a big snore-fest.

There will be one anxious player waiting to hear about his destiny. To Army’s Caleb Campbell, this draft could mean life or death. If he goes undrafted, he will possibly be sent to Iraq or Afghanistan as a second lieutenant. That being said, he knew what he was getting into when he signed up and would proudly serve. “I came here after 9/11; I knew what to expect,” said Caleb. we’ve been trained to lead troops into battle. I expected to do that. I didn’t expect the Army to give me an opportunity to play in the NFL.”

Back in 2005, the Army passed a policy that releases cadets from their 5 yr. commitment if they have “unique talents and abilities.” I guess the Army believes that these soldiers could better serve as recruiters and spokespersons for the military. That means that Caleb would spend his 5 yrs. promoting service while playing in the NFL.

I don’t think he’ll have to worry about getting looked over. He should be drafted in the first or second round. I respect him for his willing to serve, but can also appreciate his hunger to move into the next stage in his career. Good luck Caleb!