What is a walk-on?


i watched the movie and still didnt understand what a walk-on is? Sorry, I am Australian, not familiar with College football rules. Is this just another term for a sub? Is he the greatest substition to replace another player?

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In American college sports, athletes are recruited to play for a particular school by an offer of a full (or partial) scholarship. Athletes who "walk-on" are those who try out for the team without a scholarship. They may earn a scholarship later when one comes available by virtual of their performance.

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Thanks man. Great explanation. I didnt think trying out for a team without a scholarship was an uncommon thing. So what made Burlsworth stand out from other walk ons? Is he the only one who made it to NFL?

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It's not that uncommon, but generally, the athletes who do try out aren't as good, so they face a huge obstacle. There are several who have made it to the NFL and had long careers. Knowing if a player is going to be successful is still an art rather than a science.

Burlsworth's story drew more attention because he wasn't a natural athlete, but also because he died young.

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It's difficult, but not uncommon for walk-ons to earn scholarships and become starters. But it's almost unheard of for a walk-on to become an All-American, because they typically don't have All-American natural talent, or they wouldn't have been walk-ons.

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