The NFL may not have two of its top prospects in attendance for the NFL draft this year.
The speculation long has been that Jameis Winston would not attend the draft, possibly to avoid a frenzy given his controversial image. Winston confirmed that speculation Tuesday when he said he would be spending the day with his grandmother. Now we’re learning that the other top quarterback prospect in the draft will not be in attendance.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that Marcus Mariota will not be present at the draft in Chicago in order to spend the momentous day with his family in his home state of Hawaii.
Marcus Mariota told NFL it is important to him, personally and culturally, to be in Hawaii to celebrate next step in life. No draft for him.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 31, 2015
As anyone who watched the Heisman Trophy ceremony knows, the Polynesian culture is a big deal to Mariota, who even spoke a few words in Samoan during his acceptance speech. Though he and Winston will be missed as they possibly go Nos. 1 and 2 overall in the draft, there is little doubt that those around them will appreciate having them around.
[Also see: Tony Dungy says Marcus Mariota is the next Aaron Rodgers]
Many years ago Joe Thomas said he was going be skipping the draft to spend the day fishing. He has gone on to reach several Pro Bowls and probably does not regret his decision one bit. We’re guessing Mariota and Winston will be happy to spend the draft exactly the way they want.
