VIDEO: Coach Sam Pittman Watching His Former Bulldogs Get Drafted is Incredibly Emotional
By Scott Rogust
Who says the NFL Draft is just a big day for prospects? Yes, they put in the hard work and made sacrifices to fulfill their dream of playing for a professional football team. But you can't forget about the college coaches that helped lead them to this point. Take Arkansas head coach Sam Pittman, for example. Pittman used to be the Georgia Bulldogs' offensive line coach from 2016-19, so he worked extensively with tackles Andrew Thomas and Isaiah Wilson. On draft night, Pittman was like a proud father seeing both get selected in the first round.
"I'm as proud of you as anybody could ever be."
— Arkansas Razorback Football (@RazorbackFB) April 24, 2020
Prepare for all the feels watching @CoachSamPittman celebrate with his former players after they were drafted in the first round last night. pic.twitter.com/FAO7YCmxGV
This is the wholesome content we needed. It truly brings a smile to your face.
Thomas was the first offensive tackle to be taken in the 2020 draft. The fourth overall pick slots in as the New York Giants' left tackle for the next decade, where he'll provide protection for Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley.
Take note Arkansas recruits.
— thatSECpodcast (@thatSECpodcast) April 24, 2020
Sam Pittman to Andrew Thomas after being picked #4 overall in the draft:
“First lineman taken, how many years you been in college?”
Thomas: “Three.”
Pittman: “Three? Don’t it usually take four?”
Thomas “Yes sir!”pic.twitter.com/ExWmb6yDH1
Wilson was originally projected to be a second-round selection, but his stock rose in the weeks leading up to the big event. The Tennessee Titans saw right tackle Jack Conklin leave for the Cleveland Browns in free agency, so they replaced him with Wilson at pick No. 29. Now, the rookie will have the chance to open up holes for bulldozing running back Derrick Henry.
Georgia has always been known for its power rushing attack, and full credit should be given to Pittman. Now, the fruits of his labor have paid off, and he can say that two of his players were first-round selections in the NFL Draft. Bravo, Sam.