Another East Texan Joined The Rich And Storied Legacy Of NFL Talent To Come From Our Area.

It was an exciting night for millions of fans across the country and for hundreds of families and friends across the country as the NFL Draft took place and we watched as the hard work and dreams of many to become pro athlete come true.

East Texas already has a long list of NFL stars but last night another name was added to the roll as a West Rusk "Raider" who became a "Red Raider" will become a Las Vegas Raider.

The Las Vegas Raiders drafted Tyree Wilson in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft Thursday.

The former West Rusk Raider and Texas Tech defensive end was ranked one of the top edge rushers in this class. The East Texan led the Texas Tech Red Raiders in sacks and tackles for loss the past two seasons.

Born in Alaska, Wilson moved to East Texas when he was 2 to the small East Texas town of New London, population 958. After finishing up at West Rusk, Wilson went to Texas A&M then transferred to Texas Tech where he stood out and became one of the "can't miss" players of the draft according to some experts.

Even Gave The Commissioner A Big Bear Hug!

When asked if he was aware of the moment he lifted NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell up on stage with a big hug, Wilson told reporters:

"You know, it was a lot of excitement but I also made a commitment last week that I was going to lift him up and I was like: 'It's your time, I've got to lift you up,' and I did it. But it was that excitement and commitment."

We're all excited for what's to come for Tyree Wilson and we also expect to hear more East Texan names to be announced this weekend and we'll keep you posted.