The NFL draft is one of the most anticipated events in the sport of football. It's where passionate college football fans and equally dedicated NFL fans collide for one weekend of excitement.
In the simplest terms, it's like opening Christmas gifts as a child, but instead of a new video game or a new toy, a 6-foot-6, 275-pound defensive end is unwrapped. And at the same time, it's as heartwarming as watching children open those presents as parents.
Landon Jackson's emotional response to finding out he was a Buffalo Bill
Luckily for Arkansas fans, Landon Jackson's heartwarming moment was caught on video. When he heard the phone ring, he opened the screen to a notification that read "spam risk," and he nearly missed the call that would make his dreams come true. "I thought I was getting pranked, to be honest with you."
Thankfully, his wife convinced him to answer the call. After finding out that it was the Buffalo Bills, the anticipation and built-up emotions became too intense to keep in. "At that point, I kind of just shut down and started bawling."
After the call ended, an emotional Jackson embraced his loved ones in celebration of his monumental achievement.
From the other angle, the moment was just as moving. Buffalo also captured the call, and the Bills General Manager Brandon Beane was the first voice Jackson heard. You can hear his shaky voice in the background as Beane informed the former Arkansas defensive end that he was their newest addition.
After Beane, head coach Sean McDermott jumped on the line. "You gonna make me cry, man," said the eight-year Bills leader.
It's much deserved for the young man, as Jackson helped solidify Arkansas' defensive line through the years. He finished his career with the Hog, recording 116 tackles, 58 solo, 26.5 TFLs, 16 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 5 passes defended in 42 games.