Dillon Baxter works out for Chargers
The 2009 Silver Pigskin winner walks into the NFL Draft carrying high hopes and a plenty of drama from his past. Can his talent overcome his former demons?
A journey that started with the Silver Sow, and wandered through three schools, has now led Dillon Baxter to the hallowed ground of Chargers Park. A private workout and a chance to show his skills are still the very best.
“Me being a San Diego kid, it was awesome,” Baxter said. “I drove on Interstate 15 for so long and saw that bolt on the side of the hill. Just to get a chance to go up there and workout for the coaches is awesome.”
Dillon will have to show two things to get better. Physically, he has to show he's the same man that was the number one prospect in the county. Emotionally, he has to show his past personal issues are just that – in the past.
“I'm in a real better place,” Baxter said. “I've been through a lot. I've learned a lot. I've grown up. I didn't expect things to turn out the way they did, but I wouldn't take it back. It made me into the man I am today. As a football player, I'm the same kid. I've still got all the same moves.”
The Chargers have a history of signing local products as free agents. Some are even drafted, making the allure of joining his hometown team even stronger.
“I'd love to play here in San Diego. It's where my family is, my son. I'd love to play right in my own backyard.”
