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Former Indiana Hoosiers Running Back Darius Willis Gets An NFL Tryout

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James Brosher-Indiana Daily Student

Former Indiana University running back Darius Willis has returned to the playing field after an injury ended his collegiate playing days in 2010.

The former Hoosier left the program in 2010 after a series of knee injuries finally took their toll.

Willis was invited back to Indiana’s pro day this spring. The former Under Armor All-American has been getting NFL ready with elite performance training at Athletes With Purpose. It has been a long road back, but Willis found his first of what is sure to be many opportunities with the New York Jets.

“It was a fun experience. Its been way to long,” Willis said. “IU invited me back to participate in their pro day and it was a pretty good pro day. I knew someone would call eventually.”

The Jets brought Willis out to try out at their rookie camp, but there was no offer made.

“They were evaluating everything that I did since I haven’t played since 2010 to see how I can contribute to the team. They told me to keep working hard, that I’ll have an opportunity somewhere they just weren’t interested in signing any running backs right now,” Willis said.

Despite the letdown of not being offered a contract, Willis remains optimistic he will be in action somewhere when training camps start this summer.

“At this point I’ll be returning back to my AWP staff and working out getting in camp shape. I’m sure my agent will find someone’s interest that will get me into camp so I’ll be working to gain interest of teams,” Willis said.

That moment will be one Willis can’t afford to let pass without making an impact. But for someone who has come this far that moment will be one he will certainly make the most of.

“It will be a true blessing and a true testimony how good God is … Hard work pays off and its always been a dream to be a playing in the NFL. Its going to be great to do something I love I don’t care what team I’m on I love playing the game.”

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