JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Jaguars, holding the 17th overall pick, had a notable draft experience with offensive tackle Anton Harrison, reflecting on his journey since being selected in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Leading up to draft day, Harrison's anticipation was tinged with uncertainty as he navigated discussions with various teams.
"You never really know. It was some teams I talked to, and it was like 'you might go there, you might go there,' so you never really know," said Harrison.
Selected 27th overall last year, Harrison recalled the emotional moment when his name was called during the draft.
"Leavin that college journey, getting drafted was great. I didn't cry, so that was a good thing. I was with all my family, I was back at home, so it was a great moment to have everyone there. Everyone had sacrificed something for me, so it was big for me," he said.
For Harrison, the real work commenced immediately upon joining the league.
"Really, it is what it is when they call you. They call you and say 'you ready to work?' And that's what it is. The next day, you go to the city. I came to Jacksonville, seen it, loved it, when back home for a couple of days then right back here to work," he explained.
He emphasized the pressure that comes with being a first-round pick and the determination to prove himself.
"Trying to learn the playbook so fast, because I want to come in here, I want to play, I want to be one of the guys that the team is believing to do the job. Coming in, showing people that I can play and help us win on Sundays," Harrison said.
In offering advice to the upcoming rookie class, Harrison urged them to focus on the present.
"Don't look too far into the future. I'm a guy who likes to plan far ahead and do all that, but staying in the moment will help you a lot and get you to where you want to be. Just stay in the moment," he advised.