Ryan Mallett didn't know when he'd hear him name called in this weekend's NFL Draft, considering the fact that many had been questioning his character leading up to the draft. It ultimately took three rounds and 74 picks for Mallett to hear his name read at the podium, and it was the New England Patriots who saved him from the torture.
It was a long wait for Mallett, who was once considered one of the top quarterbacks in the draft, but in the end, he is just happy to have the opportunity to play in the NFL.
Mallett on falling to 3rd round: "Obviously it's frustrating, but for anybody to just to get a chance to play in the NFL is something that a lot of people don't get to do. It's a dream come true for me." (via Mike Reiss/ESPN Boston)
Not only does Mallett get to play on the world's biggest stage, but he gets to do so under head coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady. Given the circumstances, that's a pretty good deal, no?
For more on the New England Patriots and their draft, head over to Pats Pulpit. And for all things 2011 NFL Draft related, from the first pick to Mr. Irrelevant and everything in between, check out SB Nation's 2011 NFL Draft Hub and our NFL Draft blog, Mocking The Draft.