(07-19-2017, 08:00 PM)Bzerkap Wrote:With the 85th pick the Wraiths select.........


Rafael Reyes!!!!!! CB

It took the 85th pick in the 11th round for the Kansas State Cornerback to hear his name called at the official S2 NSFL Draft. The eighth and final cornerback taken in the draft, at a point where Orange County had already started to skip their selections. A variety of factors contributed to his late selection but none of that matters now, according to the Houston native.

"It's what it is at this point. It was a little disappointing to see the Otters already skipping instead of picking me up, but if they don't see me as a player that can contribute to their squad? Nothing can be done about that. I had only one prior interview with a team, and hat was with Baltimore. I thought it went well for the most part, but my opinion was clearly misguided. I'm a Wraith now and that's all that matters. I was surprised by this, but i'll have to get used to that cold Yellowknife weather. I had no real preference as to where I got drafted since there wasn't a Texas team where I could be real close to home."

A run support cornerback, Reyes offers the Wraiths flexibility in their formations and given them a unique twist to their set up. Man to man coverage specialists have become common for the NSFL, but none of them truly have the versatility that Rafael can provide. The Wraiths brought back and drafted Dermot Lavelle at the CB position, with pro bowler Cutter still on the roster. Competing with Henri for the second string job, it's clear there will be a long road ahead of Rafael Reyes if he wants to see time consistently on the field.

"I knew it would be an uphill battle as soon as I got drafted here, my agent gave me the rundown and i've been talking to the coaching staff about what they see in me. At Kansas State I played multiple positions, and I don't see why it wouldn't work at the NSFL level. I'm confident in my game, and can provide the team with another option on both ends of the field. Wide Receiver? Safety? I can play those spots if called upon, even if I prefer slotting in as a first string cornerback. It will come with time and the guys at Yellowknife been helpful in what I need to work on to be an asset to the organization."

Rafael Reyes will be present at the main training camp, looking to earn a spot when many have written him off and doubt that he will even crack the main roster. There has been little press or fanfare regarding Rafael, even after he had declared himself for this draft. Many believe that he had his career made by his father, a defensive coordinator for Kansas State, through politics. His stats in college have been solid but nothing crazy but his athletic frame and competitive nature has led others to believe he might have a future in the NSFL if he plays his cards right.



"I can't focus on the doubters. People say this, people say that. I haven't been offered a contract just yet but I remain hopeful for the time being. I've made great progress and the coaching staff has me practicing with the offense and defense, so I hve some idea as to how they want me out on the field. People are surprised I made it this far, but i'm not. I've worked a long while to get myself into the best condition I possibly can for this very moment. I work just as hard as any other player, I belong in this league and people will realize this soon enough. Yeah, I know I probably won't be making the pro-bowl team but i'm here to get wins. That's the main objective for the Wraiths, and it's what I like about them. We're going to win it all."