Matt Corral wasn’t the only quarterback from the 2022 draft class that got called up later than he thought he would. But that doesn’t mean his story of getting to the NFL isn’t a unique one.
Two weeks ago, the Ole Miss star—who had garnered some buzz as a first-round pick—was selected by the Carolina Panthers at the 94th overall spot in third round. The wait for Corral was obviously disappointing—as he’d been present at the event on the first day, only for he and his family to be left in the green room without a destination.
And although the route to where he eventually wound up took a bit longer than expected, Corral said on Friday that he’ll use the emotions from that weekend to fuel him even further.
“100 percent,” he replied when asked by Joseph Person of The Athletic if his slide will serve as motivation. “I mean, I had a chip on my shoulder before. But it just got even bigger. It was, for sure, a roller coaster. Bunch of mixed emotions. When I got that phone call, I have truly never been happy and sad at the same time. I’ve never felt that before.”
Corral, along with 41 other players, embarked on their first session of Panthers rookie minicamp this morning. He also noted—in response to questions about being pro-ready—that it’s all about getting one percent better every day.
“All it comes down to is knowing the playbook,” he said. “If I can know the playbook, I’ma be ready to play. And as far as getting ready to be the starter—of course my mentality is to be a starter—but, right know, I’m trying to get on that 53-man roster.”
