Thirteen years ago, a freshman in Beaumont, Texas signed a “dedication contract” to one day reach the NFL.
“I James Pj Locke agree to work and make necessary sacrifices starting on this day Mar. 17, 2011 to be able to reach ultimate goal of playing in the NFL,” his contract reads.
P.J. Locke went on to earn all-state and all-district honors at Central High School in Texas before attending the University of Texas. His goal of reaching the NFL suffered a setback when he went undrafted in 2019, but he quickly signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as a college free agent.
Locke then hit another setback when the Steelers cut him as they finalized their 53-man roster ahead of the 2019 season, but that did not mark the end of his NFL journey. The safety signed with the Denver Broncos’ practice squad four months after being cut by Pittsburgh, and the rest is history.
Dreams coming true as I always expected and never doubted! All Glory to God! 🙏🏽 #53manRoster pic.twitter.com/zdl9RvKBdc
— James "PJ" Locke III (@PjLocke4) September 26, 2020
Locke contributed primarily on special teams from 2020-2022 before emerging as an eight-game starter in 2023. After totaling 53 tackles, five pass breakups, three sacks, two forced fumbles and one interception with the Broncos last year, Locke was rewarded with a two-year, $7 million contract extension this offseason.
Locke set a goal and he had the dedication and talent to fulfil it. Now 27 years old, Locke is entering his sixth season in the NFL.
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