A feel-good story in sports, with a longshot making a team, is always something heartwarming. In this case, we're talking about Danny Amendola, who's a longshot, but seemingly still impressing the Philadelphia Eagles.
Danny Amendola is an underdog, but at 5-foot-11, 186-pounds, he has plenty of speed. A former second-team All-Big 12 wideout, Amendola spent last season on the Dallas Cowboys' practice squad before joining Philadelphia's taxi squad in the playoffs.
With the Eagles signing top draft pick Jeremy Maclin, however, Danny Amendola might have more trouble making the squad. They are both similarly handicapped somewhat by their college experience, however. Like Maclin, wide receiver Danny Amendola played in a Big 12 spread offense and the transition from a college spread to an NFL system like Reid's isn't easy.
Danny Amendola was an undrafted free agent last year. Nothing the tough uphill climb he has, he said:
"I just want a chance. We'll see how it goes. The big thing is consistency. Being in and out of the playbook and then being consistent on the field is what they're looking for. You've got to make plays when you can.
"One of the main things I learned last year [with the Cowboys] was that you can't control what you can't control. You can come in and work hard. You can get better in the weight room. You can get better on the field - faster, stronger. And mentally, you can prepare yourself. But that's really all you can control.
"In the end, you're not the one making the decision [on whether you make the team]. So you just have to put yourself in the best position. If I do that, in the end, I'll have no regrets."
While Maclin will obviously get the attention, good luck to Danny Amedola. The NFL can alway use another feel-good story.
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