Ashton Jeanty Shares Experience of Prank Call During NFL Draft Night

Ashton Jeanty Shares Experience of Prank Call During NFL Draft Night

Ashton Jeanty, a recent draft pick for the Las Vegas Raiders, became a victim of the prank call phenomenon that affected many NFL prospects this year. In a candid podcast interview, Jeanty opened up about an unexpected call he received shortly after his selection was announced.

During his appearance on the “Stacking the Box” podcast, Jeanty recounted that the prankster falsely claimed he was being traded to the Dallas Cowboys. He revealed, “Some dude called me who was like, ‘Yeah… we just traded with the Raiders, and you’re coming to the Cowboys.’ I just hung up, bro. I was like, ‘Come on, bro.'” This humorous revelation adds to the growing list of draft night mishaps experienced by budding athletes.

Jeanty’s Connection to the Cowboys

Before the NFL Draft, Jeanty expressed his deep admiration for the Cowboys, underscoring a lifelong dream of playing for the team. Growing up in Frisco, Texas, he had always envisioned donning the star on his helmet. He stated in an earlier interview, “I would love to play for the Cowboys. It’d be like a dream come true. Obviously, I used to play in their practice stadium, and all our home games in high school, even my freshman year when we came down here for the Frisco Bowl, we practiced there again.”

Jeanty’s fond memories of playing in the Cowboys’ practice facility contribute to his emotional connection with the franchise. He elaborated, “So, it would just feel like I’m at home, honestly. I ain’t going to say too much, but Dallas, they’ve always had a good running back, and when they’ve got a good running back, they play a lot better.” His enthusiasm reflects not only his personal aspirations but also a profound appreciation for the sport and its heritage in Dallas.

The Raiders as an Alternative

Despite Jeanty’s aspirations to play for the Cowboys, he ultimately found a spot on the Raiders’ roster. The Raiders represented a strong opportunity for him to showcase his skills in the NFL, even if it wasn’t the team of his childhood dreams. This move highlights the competitive nature of the NFL Draft, where players must contend with various factors when assessing their future endeavors.

Prank Calls in the NFL Draft

Jeanty’s experience was not unique; several other players found themselves on the receiving end of prank calls during the draft. One of the most notorious incidents involved Shedeur Sanders, who was the target of a call that misled him about his draft position. The prankster, revealed to be the son of Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, sparked widespread criticism and led to significant disciplinary actions.

The Falcons organization faced a substantial fine of $250,000 due to this prank call incident, with Coach Ulbrich personally fined $100,000. Such actions underscore the seriousness of the league’s stance against irresponsible behavior during such a pivotal time in a player’s career.

Impact on NFL Prospects

For many aspiring NFL players, the draft represents a crucial milestone that can shape their professional careers. The excitement surrounding this event often intensifies due to the high stakes involved. However, it is essential for players to maintain focus and navigate the challenges associated with the process.

Although prank calls like the ones received by Jeanty and Sanders may offer a humorous twist, they also serve as a reminder of the pressures athletes face during the draft. Not only do they need to prepare physically and mentally for their upcoming careers, but they must also deal with distractions and interruptions that can arise unexpectedly.

The Role of Media and Fans

The increasing prevalence of social media amplifies these distractions, making it easier for pranks to be executed and for rumors to spread quickly. Fans and media alike often scrutinize draft night, which can further complicate the situation for young players eager to make their mark.

Jeanty’s experience sheds light on the complexities of the modern NFL Draft atmosphere. In an age where information circulates rapidly, the convergence of technology and sports can yield both fun and challenges. The internet has the potential to connect fans with their favorite players, but it can also introduce unexpected elements, such as prank calls.

Learning from the Experience

For Jeanty, the prank call may forever remain a light-hearted anecdote from his draft night experience. As he begins his career with the Raiders, he must focus on developing his skills and establishing himself in the league. Fans and supporters eagerly await to see what the future holds for him in Las Vegas.

As the NFL evolves, stories like Jeanty’s will continue to resonate within the community. They highlight the importance of resilience, humor, and perspective on what can be a transformative journey for many athletes.