Ball State University Athletics
Former Cardinal Willie Snead Excelling with NFL's Saints
October 27, 2015 | Football
In 2013 Willie Snead was one of the best wide receivers in college football. In 2014 he was searching for a job. In 2015 Snead is the breakout star of the National Football League.
An Honorable Mention All-American by Sports Illustrated as a Cardinals junior, Snead declared early for the NFL draft. He finished his Ball State career second all-time in receiving yards, just 39 yard shy of Dante Ridgeway's record. But the pro ranks proved a harder challenge. Undrafted, Snead signed and spent training camp with the Cleveland Browns. His tenure was short-lived, however, cut right before the regular season. The Floridian later found a practice squad gig with the Carolina Panthers, only to be released once more.
Down but not out, Snead continued to work hard, eventually landing a 'futures contract' with the New Orleans Saints. With a strong showing in OTA's and training camp he parlayed that into a 53-man roster spot.
Snead's certainly made good on the Saints' fall decision. He currently sits 24th in the NFL in receiving yards, one spot ahead of teammate (and second round pick) Brandin Cooks along with the likes of Jimmy Graham, Anquan Boldin and Pierre Garcon. He also happens to be his team's leading receiver...a title only 30 men in the world can claim.
Ball State All-Access caught up with Snead this past Sunday, his Saints in town for a 27-21 win over the Indianapolis Colts. The rookie hauled in three catches for 24 yards in his Indiana return.
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