“I was working a job a week ago, then graduated college, and received a call from the Packers an hour or two later,” Callis shared after his first practice at training camp on Tuesday. “It was a blessing. We worked out this morning; I did well and impressed them.”
Callis, who graduated from Troy with a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies on Friday, is 5-foot-10 1/4 and 174 pounds but boasts a 4.42 speed in the 40-yard dash. Despite going undrafted and trying out for the Packers and 49ers rookie camps, he wasn’t signed initially.
“I was hoping and praying for a call,” he said. “My agent kept telling me to be patient. I considered the XFL, but he advised against it. I stayed patient, and now I’m here.”
During the waiting period, Callis took a job.
“I was mowing lawns from 5 AM to 5 PM for $11 an hour,” he said. “It was humbling, but I’m blessed to be playing football now.”
After his chance with the 49ers, Callis faced a long wait with no guarantees, testing his patience and motivation.
“It was tough,” he admitted. “I questioned if football was for me but regained my motivation. I put my faith in God, and here I am.”
Callis spent four seasons at East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma, before transferring to Troy, where he was a key backup and broke up four passes. Pro Football Focus noted his coverage stats, with 11-of-18 for 167 yards and zero touchdowns.
Three months after going undrafted, things fell into place, starting with his graduation.
“My aunt suggested that getting my degree might lead to a call from the NFL, and she was right,” Callis said.
Callis seized the opportunity and now competes against top NFL talent.
“My agent congratulated me, and when I asked why, he told me I had performed well and would be signed. I felt humble and gave praise to God.”
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