STONY BROOK, N.Y. — Any young child that has laced up their shoulder pads and donned a football helmet has dreamed of reaching the NFL.
For a selected few, this week's NFL Draft is that opportunity to move one step closer to fulfilling those lifelong dreams.
That is no different for cornerback
Gavin Heslop.
Heslop was a senior captain for the Stony Brook football team in 2019 and will be tuned into the draft that gets underway on Thursday night with the first round and concludes with the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh rounds on Saturday.
By the time the weekend is over, Heslop hopes his hard work will have paid off and he will either hear his named called in the draft or be able to sign a free-agent contract.
"I've just been training and getting myself into the best shape I could due to these unforeseen circumstances," Heslop said. "I have not been able to attend any private workouts or local days. I've just been training and getting myself into the best shape I could waiting for my shot to play in the NFL."
Stony Brook was able to hold the annual Pro Day for the seniors in the new Indoor Training Facility on campus. It was held on March 11. Heslop performed in front of 14 NFL area scouts. He has been in contact with six organizations that have indicated he could either be a late-round pick or be offered an undrafted free agent opportunity.
Either way, Heslop is thankful for the time he spent during his career at Stony Brook.
"I learned how to be mentally tough at Stony Brook," Heslop said. "Mental toughness has helped my preparation for the next level by being able to persevere throughout this process. Although I am living out a dream, it hasn't been easy. The grind is real and it takes the right mentality to be able to face adversity, having faith and not taking 'no' for an answer.
"I thank Stony Brook for instilling mental toughness in me."
During his career as a Seawolf, Heslop played in 45 games and recorded 196 total tackles with four force fumble and four fumble recoveries, two of which he returned for touchdowns.
He also earned All-CAA Football honors as a junior and senior.
All of Heslop's accomplishments at Stony Brook were once just a dream as well. A dream that came true.
"When I started playing football I always dreamed about getting a scholarship and playing Division I football," Heslop said. "By the grace of God I was able to live that dream. After some time in college I began to dream about playing in the NFL. This whole process I've been going through for these last few months has been a blessing. I am living out a dream."
