Wow! Did you know that Dwayne Johnson, also known as The Rock, was once a professional American football player? Before he became a world-famous actor and icon, he was a potential National Football League (NFL) draftee.
Let me tell you a bit about it. When Johnson was at the University of Miami, he originally wanted to be a professional football player. He was one of the best and most prominent members of the Miami Hurricanes football team and was even chosen as an All-American defensive tackle, being among the top collegiate players of his year.
However, in the 1995 NFL draft, Johnson was not chosen by any team despite his impressive stats. He was ultimately passed on due to doubts over his already bruised shoulder, an injury he sustained during college. This was a crushing blow for Johnson. But, even in the face of such adversity, he decided to pursue his dream.
Frustrated by not being chosen in the draft, Johnson contacted every single team in the NFL, looking for an opportunity. After a while, he was offered a three-year contract as a lineman and linebacker for the Calgary Stampeders of Canada’s. Johnson was on his way with this new opportunity and focused on his football career.
Although Johnson had adequate success in his two-season stint with Calgary, he eventually decided to hang up his cleats and pursue his biggest passion – entertainment. He returned to the US in 1997 and went on to become one of the most successful actors in the world.
From never making it into the NFL draft to becoming one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood, Johnson has come a long, long way. His never-say-die attitude and self-confidence has made this journey possible.
His story is an inspiring one. It goes to show that, no matter if one’s initial dreams come true or not, the only way to succeed is never to give up and stay determined to the objective. I’m so proud of his success!
What is even more remarkable is that his dramatic break with the NFL made him an even greater star. Johnson still maintains his love and dedication for football and, since 2015, he has held a partnership with the NFL. Through the “Football is Family” campaign, Johnson has become an ambassador of the sport and aims to inspire fans all around the world.
I also remember when The Rock participated in the Kickoff Live event alongside Rob Gronkowski, a former NFL and New England Patriots player. They had a good time joking around the NFL Draft and shared with their fans how it was like to go through the experience.
Moreover, in 2019, Johnson was honoured by the University of Miami with a statue for his outstanding and successful career in athletics and in entertainment. This was an amazing moment for him, showing that his hard work, perseverance and optimism paid off!
Speaking of which, Johnson also often speaks of his mentality of pushing beyond personal limitations and not letting the past define him. He encourages those going after their dreams to take action and not worry about being judged by society.
Perhaps, his most inspiring commentary on the situation probably was when he said “you don’t ever forget it, but you use it as fuel to never give up, to never give in regardless of what life throws at you”. He’s right on this one!
He also mentioned that, even not making it as an NFL player helped him build resilience and gave him the strength and the motivation he now needs in his acting career. Besides, the lack of instant success has made him appreciate the small victories on the way to achieving his bigger dreams.
It’s true, Johnson didn’t make it as an NFL player but he found success in other areas. In fact, he’s earned two Golden Globe nominations, made four wrestling appearances, and even starred in his own HBO series. What an impressive career!
When Johnson recently re-entered the NFL fold with the “Football is Family” campaign, he made sure to thank the league for his missed opportunity and for ultimately kickstarting an unprecedented journey. He even personally thanked Commissioner Roger Goodell for the honour during the 2018 NFL Draft in an unforgettable ceremony.
In this way, Dwayne Johnson, The Rock, made his way back to the NFL and showed the world what determination can lead to. It’s really remarkable what he’s accomplished. What do you think?