Williams follows several NFL hopefuls through the 2004 college season and the predraft process, culminating with the 2005 NFL draft.
It’s a complex environment, with college coaches attempting to protect their “student-athletes” from exploitation (while fully aware that they can only remain competitive if they attract NFL-caliber players to their schools), along with sports agents and NFL scouts trying to stay ahead of their competition. These parties provide a multi-angled view of the world of emerging NFL talent.
The reader follows the process through scouts, agents, and the coaching divisions of Florida State and the University of Virginia. Also central to the narrative are the Atlanta Falcons, who use a character-based evaluation system to set their draft board. These stories weave together, culminating in draft weekend, to create a gripping and fascinating look at a world few see from the inside.