Dalton Risner is viewed as one of the better offensive tackles coming out in 2019. A native of Wiggins, CO., the 6-foot-5, 300-pound right tackle was a four-year starter at Kansas State University and is the kind of player that could make an immediate impact for the Denver Broncos.
Along with physical abilities, Risner has been smooth and composed throughout the interview process. When asked on what it would mean to play for John Elway and his childhood team, Risner told reporters at the NFL Combine that it would be a pretty cool experience to play for a Colorado legend. More importantly though, Risner emphasized what makes him a valuable prospect at the next level.
“@johnelway, growing up, was a Colorado legend. … I grew up watching him as a kid, so if I got to play for him that would be a pretty cool experience.” – @DaltonBigD71#NFLCombine pic.twitter.com/ti2Hnfs73d
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) March 1, 2019
Risner explained that as a 23-year-old with no off-field issues or questions about his character, what makes him appealing to NFL teams is his work ethic and general reliability.
“I’m not going to get in trouble with alcohol or drugs or anything like that,” Risner said. “I’m ready to get onto an NFL team and play professional football. I’m going to handle my business, I’m going to be on time, I’m going to work my ass off and I’m going to get things done.”
Risner continued that not everyone is prepared for the grind of playing professional football or the focus that it takes to be successful in the league.
“There’s grown men trying to keep food on the plate for their families and it’s not like I’m a fourth or fifth-year veteran at Kansas State, where I had my position on lock,” Risner said.
“Every year a guy is going to come in and try to take your job. Whatever club I get drafted to, I’m going to try and take that man’s position and I’m sure he has a family at home. Then the next year, someone will be trying to take my position. Trying is the key word, but I’m ready for that.”
It’s clear that Risner has the right mindset and physical abilities to succeed at the next level. The fact that he’s from Colorado is a neat story, but the truth is that the Broncos would be interested in him no matter where he was from. Broncos fans are hoping that a Mile High reunion is in the works, but Risner is poised to be a star in the league, no matter where he ends up.
