After being left in the green room following the first round of the NFL Draft on Thursday, Will Levis passed on showing up for Day 2 on Friday, a decision several NFL veterans believe he might regret.
Philadelphia Eagles All-Pro cornerback Darius Slay, a Day 2 pick himself, weighed in to share his story, revealing how the wait created a lifelong bond with Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith.
I was invite to the draft an was a day 2 guy an stayed for the 2nd day because it’s nothing like hearing your name an walking cross that stage… me an @GenoSmith3 became homies after that day. We was the only 2 in the green room✊ https://t.co/5qI7VRGxPE
— Darius Slay (@bigplay24slay) April 28, 2023
Responding to Slay's tweet, Smith enthused that being present to hear his name was a moment he would never forget.
Brian Branch was the only player to return to the green room for Day 2, ultimately going to the Detroit Lions at pick 45.
Unlikely Levis, Branch received his moment. He got to hear his name called. He got to walk the draft stage and wrap his arms around Roger Goodell.
"I feel like being here was important," Branch said via NFL Network. "This was a once in a lifetime opportunity. I just wanted to enjoy the moment."
Brian Branch waited for his moment ❤️@BrianBB_1 | @Lions
— NFL (@NFL) April 29, 2023
: 2023 #NFLDraft on NFLN/ESPN/ABC
: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/D3EqkrKLy4 pic.twitter.com/qROHtNfxWZ
Levis' decision will reflect poorly on the young quarterback in some corners, but winning cures all and if Levis is successful in Tennessee, his absence on Day 2 of the draft will become a footnote in his career.
Sometimes it is wise to remember that these are still young men. Levis is only 23 years old and smack dab in the middle of likely the most stressful time of his young life. Undoubtedly embarrassed after going undrafted in the opening round, he probably deserves a pass.
But Branch and others are proof that he might have missed out on one of the most worthwhile moments of his NFL career.
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