DETROIT, Michigan - Former Laurier offensive Isaiah Adams made history on Friday night, becoming the first student-athlete from the Golden Hawks football program selected in the NFL Draft after having his name called in the third round and 71st overall by the Arizona Cardinals.Â
The native of Ajax, Ont., began his university career with Laurier in 2018, playing nine games before heading to Garden City Community College in Garden City, Kansas after the 2019 season, while football was among the cancelled sports in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic.Â
Adams remained there for one season before enrolling at the University of Illinois, where he played the last two seasons, earning third-team All-Big Ten honours in 2022 and an All-Big Ten honourable mention in 2023 while also serving as a team captain.
"We are so happy for and proud of everything Isaiah has accomplished," said Laurier's manager of football operations and head coach Michael Faulds. "He has great measurables and talent, but it has been his work ethic and determination that have led to this moment."
"Isaiah was an absolute force for us when he was here at Laurier. When the COVID-19 pandemic cancelled all football in Canada, we were sad to see him leave but completely understood and supported his decision," he added.
"We know that Isaiah will flourish once again at this next and highest level of football, as he has in every step thus far."
