Listen Here
By Tristan Cross
crosst2@findlay.edu
After making his NFL debut with the Seattle Seahawks last season, former University of Findlay standout Mike Jerrell is writing a new chapter in his professional career, this time with the Atlanta Falcons. The 25-year-old offensive lineman, once a Division II star for the Oilers, has become a symbol of determination and professionalism as he continues to prove that talent truly has no division.
Jerrell, who earned All-American honors and a conference Lineman of the Year award during his time at Findlay, quickly made an impression in Seattle. After earning a spot on the 53-man roster, he played in multiple games, holding his own against some of the NFL’s top defensive players. His performance caught the attention of other teams, eventually leading to a trade to the Falcons earlier this fall.
“Honestly, it was an unreal feeling, my heart dropped,” Jerrell said of hearing his name called during the NFL Draft. “All athletes dream of that moment, to receive a call from a professional team at the highest level. It felt like I was living in a dream.”
The transition from Division II football to the NFL, however, didn’t come easily. Jerrell said the biggest adjustment was the level of technical precision required in the pros.
“In college, I could get away with bad technique and win 90 percent of my reps,” Jerrell said. “Here, everyone is gifted physically and talent-wise. You have to be spot on and detailed in everything you do.”
Jerrell credits much of his readiness to his years at Findlay under Head Coach Kory Allen. The program, he said, didn’t just prepare him for football; it prepared him for life.
“Coach Allen and the staff made my transition feel easy. We practiced hard, we were pushed to our limits, and I already felt like a professional before I ever stepped into the NFL,” Jerrell said. “They taught me how to conduct myself in a professional manner at all times.”
Allen, who coached Jerrell from his redshirt season through his breakout years, said his former player’s success is a reflection of the kind of culture Findlay has built.
“He had to go through a lot, redshirting, not winning the job right away, COVID,” Allen said. “But that adversity made him who he is. His success shows our players that if you’re good enough, the NFL will find you. You don’t have to go elsewhere.”
Former teammate Mitch Nielsen said Jerrell’s work ethic stood out long before he ever got the NFL call.
“Mike was always passionate about the game and our team. He was always the first one in and the last one out,” Nielsen said. “He never took a rep off, never made excuses. Seeing him make it shows that the way he approached every day really paid off.”
Jerrell said his time in Seattle taught him how to be a true professional, learning from veteran players about film study, preparation, and leadership. Now in Atlanta, he’s focused on bringing those lessons to a new team.
“The mindset hasn’t changed, compete every day and stay ready when your number is called,” Jerrell said. “That’s what got me here, and that’s what I’ll keep doing.”
Beyond football, Jerrell’s proudest accomplishment has been giving back to the community that raised him. He recently hosted a youth camp in Indianapolis, where he shared his story with young athletes.
“I want kids to see that no dream is too big,” Jerrell said. “Whether you’re at a small school or a big one, if you put in the work, you can get there.”
As he settles into his new role with the Falcons, Jerrell continues to represent the University of Findlay and Division II football on one of the sport’s biggest stages. His journey from a college classroom to NFL Sundays is proof that dedication, resilience, and belief can take you anywhere.
