The New Orleans Saints Rookie Punter Lou Hedley did it all before entering the NFL, but the 30-year-old has finally realized his dream.
Before entering the NFL, the Australian Hedley had traveled the world and worked numerous jobs. Originally a scaffolder in his home country, Hedley even once owned a tattoo parlor in Indonesia before he decided to go for his NFL dream.
To get to the United States, he sold his stake in the parlor and tried out for the University of Miami, where he turned heads as a member of the Hurricanes. During his time, he was a two-time All-ACC member in 2020 and 2021 before earning a spot on the 1st Team All-ACC in 2022.
Going undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, he signed with the New Orleans Saints. During his time in the preseason, his play was good enough for the Saints and league to be impressed, averaging almost 43 yards per punt on 11 attempts, including a long of 49.
Though Hedley isn’t the typical rookie at 30 years old and covered in tattoos, he’s the prime example of sticking to your goals and giving it your best shot. From selling a tattoo parlor to traveling to the other side of the planet to chase your dream, Hedley is quickly becoming a fan favorite. You can’t help but cheer for the modern-day Rudy.
