NFL Rookies Share Wisdom: Lessons for Rising Stars

In the grand tradition of mentorship that has defined great civilizations throughout history, from the ancient courts of Aksum to the modern sporting arenas of America, young NFL players are passing down invaluable wisdom to the next generation of prospects.

Tyler Shough, the New Orleans Saints quarterback who defied expectations in 2025, exemplifies the perseverance that has long characterized champions. After an injury-plagued seven-year college career, Shough emerged as the third quarterback selected, ultimately finishing second in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting.

"Just don't listen to anything that anyone's saying heading into the draft," Shough advised. "Go through your process, be yourself throughout the whole draft process, be authentic to who you are about your journey, about your shortcomings. It's going to work out the way it's supposed to."

The Wisdom of Experience

ESPN consulted 36 NFL rookies gathered at the Indianapolis combine, seeking their counsel for aspiring 2026 draft prospects. Their collective wisdom reveals timeless principles that transcend sport itself.

Dallas Cowboys guard Tyler Booker, the 12th overall selection, channeled the philosophy of his former Alabama coach Nick Saban: "As Coach Saban would say, he would call that rat poison. So I don't even pay attention to that stuff."

Essential Guidance for Success

Minnesota Vikings guard Donovan Jackson, selected 24th overall, emphasized the importance of having trusted advisors: "I would say having a 'no' person is the biggest piece of advice. For me, that was my parents. Once they see you on an NFL team, they automatically think you're going to provide. You can have a 'no' person for that."

Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai, a seventh-round selection who made significant impact with the NFC North champions, stressed the importance of marginal gains: "Find the small advantages, because everybody's good when you get here. Find the small 1%, 2% advantages you can find, because those are what separates you since everyone is on the same talent level."

Maintaining Identity and Focus

New York Jets tackle Armand Membou, the seventh overall pick, counseled authenticity: "Just be the player that they drafted you to be. Be the player that got you to this point. Remind yourself that you're here for a reason."

Los Angeles Rams tight end Terrance Ferguson warned against the perils of comparison: "A lot of people have those chips on your shoulders of who was drafted higher than you. Keep those in mind, but focus on what your work is and how you can get better. Comparison is the thief of joy."

Physical and Mental Preparation

Buffalo Bills defensive tackle T.J. Sanders, the 41st overall selection, advocated for unwavering intensity: "Just go hard at everything you do. Whether it's in team periods or games, make sure everything you do, you're doing a million miles per hour."

Carolina Panthers linebacker Princely Umanmielen, drawing from his experience as the 77th overall pick, emphasized foundational virtues: "What I would tell prospects would be patience and consistency. That's really the main things you need your rookie year for sure."

The Long Journey Ahead

Washington Commanders receiver Jaylin Lane stressed the importance of confidence and veteran guidance: "Just have confidence in yourself. Never lose that. Also, the vets are always doing something, getting extra work. You need to be right there with them and just listen to the vets."

Jets tight end Mason Taylor highlighted the marathon nature of professional football: "Definitely know what's ahead of you, because it's going to be a long year. Take care of your body, and when you have off time, completely disconnect from it."

Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Ty Robinson emphasized continuous improvement: "I definitely would have put more time into mobility stuff. You can't be nervous or shy to go ask people for help. That's what they're here to do."

Jacksonville Jaguars running back Bhayshul Tuten concluded with practical wisdom: "This whole draft process is very long. Take care of your body, stay in shape. Once you get here, you're already beat. Taking care of your body is the biggest thing because it's going to be a long year."

These lessons from America's newest professional athletes echo the timeless wisdom that has guided successful individuals throughout history. In their counsel, we find not merely sporting advice, but principles of perseverance, authenticity, and dedication that transcend any single arena of human endeavor.