Lucas Whitaker

Very first day of my first job in NFL with Packers in 1996, Mr. Harlan called me up to his office. I was a PR intern, lowest person in organization at that time, and the team president spent an hour asking me about my family, college experience, and life goals. Incredible lesson in leadership. Few men of his stature would've made time for a 22-year old kid like me. Spent next two decades working in the league and never came across a finer man.

I am not ashamed of my journey. My life will be a testimony. But if I could offer a word of advice to any freshman, sophomore or junior athlete in high school it would be to just listen bro. All them adults in your life not just talking to talk. They been here longer. They done bumped they head already. They trying to save you from doing the same thing. Do not make the mistake of thinking your talent alone is enough. It’s not. Talent open doors. Character and grades keep you there. And if you already messed up, if your GPA not where it should be, if your name been in rooms for the wrong reasons… don’t quit. Keep digging. You can climb out the hole the same way you dug it. Class of 29, 28 and 27 hear me. Take your grades serious.
Choose who you hang around wisely.
Protect your name. Word spreads fast if you a crash out.
Respect authority. Nobody riding for you like your parents and coaches.
Work hard when nobody clapping. Do not wait until senior year to lock in. That GPA do not lie. I’m still figuring it out myself. I’m struggling but I know God got me. Be intentional.
Lock in early. Pray. Show up ready to work. I’m learning the hard way that my future is being built in the small decisions I make today. Start now.