Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Chris Oladokun spoke to reporters recently about getting cut after training camp last season and not getting signed for a few months.
“That was a different experience for me. I was in a different city every single week, working out. I believe I worked out with seven or eight teams, so I was just constantly in hotels and getting flights and stuff like that,” said Oladokun. “You’re sitting at home with your buddies on Sundays watching games, and you’re like: ‘Man, I really used to be out there on those Sundays.’ So, it definitely makes you appreciate any opportunity you have to be in this league, no matter if it’s active roster (or) practice squad.
Oladokun was selected in the seventh round with the 241st overall pick of the 2022 NFL draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers but was released at the end of training camp without ever suiting up for the team in a regular-season game. He’s maintained a steady role on the Chiefs’ practice squad since his rookie season.
“It is hard to play in the NFL, and it’s hard to stick on rosters.” Said Oladokun, “But also internally, it really motivated me. Made me look at myself in the mirror and see what I need to get better at physically and mentally, and I think I had a really good plan with my QB coach back home, C.J. Bennett. We sort of attacked, and I said if I get another chance, I won’t let it slip.”
The former South Dakota State standout patiently waited for his time to shine as a starter after playing a support role as the scout team quarterback over the years. The experience he’s gaining as he ends the regular season will enhance his profile on the team and around the league.