Tyler Bray “Growing Up” Since Entering The NFL
By Zach Ragan
One of the biggest concerns surrounding former Vols quarterback Tyler Bray, when he declared a year early for the NFL Draft, was his maturity.
And for good reason.
Bray was infamously accused of throwing beer bottles and golf balls at parked cars while he was at Tennessee. His poor attitude was also well known.
His reputation as an “immature kid” ultimately led to Bray going undrafted in the 2013 NFL Draft, despite his reputation as possibly the most talented quarterback in the draft.
What kind of kid is he? What kind of work ethic does he have? There are some concerns there from several of the coaches I talk to. — Mike Mayock, NFL Network Draft Analyst on Tyler Bray
The Kansas City Chiefs decided to take a chance on Bray and signed him shortly after the draft. He was considered a long shot to make the Chiefs’ roster, but he was able to beat out Ricky Stanzi for the third quarterback position.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid raved about Bray’s improved attitude during the 2013 season, saying the former Vol was “handling himself like a man”.
Bray has only continued to improve his attitude since then, according to Chiefs beat writer Terez Paylor.
That’s great news for Bray as he has another uphill battle on his hands if he plans to make the Chiefs’ active roster again this season.
Kansas City drafted former Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Aaron Murray in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
It’s highly unlikely that Murray doesn’t make the Chiefs roster, which could mean there’s no room for Bray.
However, the Chiefs could choose to unload backup quarterback Chase Daniel and his rather large contract.
If Kansas City chooses to that route, then I could see Bray emerging as the team’s primary backup. He certainly appears mature enough to handle the position and there’s little doubt that he has the physical ability.
It looks like going undrafted had a positive effect on Tyler Bray afterall.