‘Creating an Edge’ -- Hemby Seeks Longevity with NFL Opportunity
Pete DiPrimio | IUHoosiers.com
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - The dream is almost here for Roman Hemby, some version of it, at least, with NFL Draft possibilities looming this week.
The former Indiana University standout running back can’t wait for what’s next.
“The NFL is the best of the best,” he says. “Since the age of 4 when I first touched a football, this was my dream.”
Hemby projects as a Day 3 draft pick potentially going in rounds five through seven. He’s one of as many as nine Hoosiers from their national title team who could be selected when the Draft begins Thursday night in Pittsburgh. Analysts like Hemby’s versatility, consistency, receiving and pass protection skills, and ability to gain tough, between-the-tackles yards despite a lack of imposing size. Last year he played at 6-foot and 210-pounds.
Hemby thrived in his one season at IU after transferring from Maryland, rushing for a team-leading 1,120 yards with seven touchdowns. He also caught 17 passes for 167 yards. That came while sharing time with Kaelon Black (1,040 yards, 10 TDs), who has his own NFL Draft aspirations.
“It only gets harder from here,” Hemby says about his draft prospects. “Not everybody will make it. A lot of people have aspirations to make it to the league. I have aspirations for making it and staying a long time.”
His versatility might be the key.
“I want to separate myself, create an edge and do everything possible,” he says. “I’m working on my flexibility and do the things I feel will enhance my game and give me the opportunity to play on all downs.”If he does, a long career is possible.
“I’ve worked on pass protection so I can stay on the field on third down. That can add longevity to my career. Hammering home to make sure I can be the best player I can be with whatever organization takes a chance on me.”
Hemby says he’s met with “a great deal of teams” and is taking it “one day at a time.”
Still, there’s uncertainty. He says he gets through it with faith and the support of family and friends.
“You have to trust the process,” he says. “My mother, father, five siblings, and a lot of nephews and nieces, they keep me grounded. I have a great support system in my corner to tell me that I’m going to land on my feet. It will be all right.”
Hemby went from the grind of IU’s 16-0 season to the NFL Combine in Indianapolis to IU’s Pro Day in front of representatives from all 32 NFL teams.
“It’s been interesting,” he says. “I continue to work my body and get in the best shape possible.
“I was healthy enough to jump right into training right after the season. I started the day after the (Jan. 19) national championship game.”
IU’s Pro Day was a big key.
“I wanted to give myself a chance to prove it on the field. I feel I did that. I felt good. I felt I made a good impression. I’ll live with whatever comes from it.”
Hemby transferred to IU after a strong run at Maryland, and it paid off in a big way.
“It was a little over a year ago when I took a leap of faith and landed here,” he says. “Everyone welcomed me with open arms. It’s a great community, a great team, great players, great coaches. To reflect on some of the things we were able to do is amazing. It was 105 guys who came together and followed Coach (Curt) Cignetti’s plan. It worked out for us.”