The 2024 NFL Draft wasn’t as celebratory for the Rice family as originally thought.
Jerry Rice’s son, Brenden Rice, is projected to be a mid-round pick in several mock drafts as a receiver out of the University of Southern California, according to his new coach, Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh. , the team had the third to fourth pick. Round grade of rice.
However, the Hall of Famer wasn’t too happy that his son was eliminated in the seventh round, becoming the 32nd receiver out of 35 selected in three days.
“My dad was hot,” Rice said. According to ESPN. “You guys…get flashes like a humble guy, right? Me, he’s like, ‘Holy shit, we’re gonna take this to another level.’ These guys will feel us. ”
The selection took place on the same day as Rice’s best friend’s funeral, and he received the draft call on his way back to Los Angeles.
“It was like a blessing from God, because God allowed me to just mourn my friend’s death, and then just move on and be happy,” Rice said. It was day,” he said.
Rice was excited to join forces with the Chargers, who have a lucrative opportunity for the young wideout to pair with quarterback Justin Herbert after losing their top two receivers in Keenan Allen and Mike. Sentiment quickly turned around regarding the draft slides. Williams — during the offseason.
Although the roster lacks talent at receiver, the Chargers signed former Pro Bowler DJ Chark Jr. earlier this month.
He had 35 receptions for 525 yards and five touchdowns last season with the Panthers.
“I’m in the best possible position to move forward and make my mark and build my own legacy,” Rice said. “I went from Caleb Williams to Justin Herbert, and I’m in a room where I can compete every day.
“It all depends on me. So if you guys don’t see me go down, that’s on me. And if you guys see me out there, I’m going to go out there and do my best.” I will do whatever it takes to create it.”
Rice, 22, had 45 receptions for 791 yards and 12 touchdowns in his senior season at USC, but it’s still debatable who was the better player, his father or himself as a rookie. That’s how Rice feels.
Jerry had 49 receptions for 927 yards and three touchdowns in 16 games during his rookie season with the 49ers.
“I feel like we’re even. I’m faster and I heard his rookie season in the NFL wasn’t great,” Rice said of his father. “I have to surpass him.”
