Braden Wilson’s first week in a National Football League training camp was pretty much what the Kansas City Chiefs’ sixth-round draft pick anticipated.
That would be all types of grueling drills, although the unseasonably cool weather has helped make for a smooth start for the Chiefs, who began preseason drills on July 22 at their training facility in St. Joseph, Mo.
“It’s a lot of work,” said Wilson, a fullback from defending Big 12 champion Kansas State, in a cellphone interview. “They put you to work. I understand how exciting this is. I’m finally here, doing something that I’ve always wanted to do.
“It’s such a hard place to get to, and to have an opportunity to play in the NFL, that’s been a goal of mine for a long time.”
Wilson was one of three Kansas State players that were selected in the draft. The others were linebacker Arthur Brown (second round, defending Super Bowl champion Baltimore Ravens) and wide receiver Chris Harper (fourth round, Seattle Seahawks).
Wilson landed as the 204th overall selection.
A bullish 6-foot-4, 256-pounder, Wilson grew up in small-town Smith Center, population 1,200, located just south of the Nebraska border in the north-central part of the state. Before the addition of Alaska and Hawaii, the Smith Center area was considered the geographic center of the United States.
Over the last 30 years, Smith Center has been known for having one of the best small-school football programs in the nation under legendary Redmen head coach Roger Barta. Wilson starred on prep teams that went undefeated in winning four straight state championships. During his senior year, he ran for 1,807 yards on 112 carries and 29 touchdowns.
While growing up, Wilson said the Chiefs were his favorite professional team.
“It’s everything that I’ve ever wanted, playing for a team that I grew up cheering for,” he said. “But at the same time, I need to stay focused and keep my mind on what I’m doing here and continue to work hard.”
Naturally, Wilson says his top priority is making the 53-man roster.
“That’s the goal,” he said. “I need to prove to the coaches that I can play in this league. I need to make the roster and help the team win games.
“I still have to make the team, so I won’t let myself relax. I’m going to have to work for it.”
Wilson had a hamstring issue during Saturday’s drills. He says it is improving.
First-year Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has brought a version of the West Coast offense, which relies on the fullback, to Kansas City.
The Chiefs acquired fullback Anthony Sherman in a trade with the Arizona Cardinals shortly after they drafted Wilson.
Sherman, a 5-10, 242-pounder, was used mostly as a blocking back under former Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt, catching 13 passes for 111 yards and carrying the ball once for three yards over two seasons.
Wilson’s parents — Chuck and Meg — reside in Great Bend.