For many of the Buffalo Bills rookies the 2015 NFL Draft seems like a distant memory.
It wasn't that long ago that they were preparing for the rigors of the combine and the NFL draft. A lot has changed in just three short months. A move to a new city, finding a new place to live, meeting new teammates and getting up to speed with an NFL playbook, are just some of the hurdles rookies face.
For Ronald Darby, a second-round pick from Florida State, the adjustment appears to be seamless so far.
"Everything has been great, you know learning the system, a new play book, the coaches, and the players have been great helping me adjust to life as a professional," he said.
Darby was the ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2012, and helped the Seminoles winthe 2014 national championship.
He credits the Buffalo Bills coaches -- especially defensive coordinator Dennis Thurman and defensive backs coach Donnie Henderson -- and his veteran teammates for his easy adjustment. Elite cornerback Stephon Gilmore has been one of the veterans that Darby has leaned on in the classroom and on the field.
"He flashes on the field as a rookie, has good speed," Gilmore said. "He is a good guy, I talked to him he seems down to earth a good guy and he always asked me questions. I try to tell him all I know and he is just a great guy, a great addition to the room and I think he will help us win games this year."
Darby came to Buffalo with one goal in mind.
"I want to compete and have fun," Darby said. "I didn't really come in thinking 'Oh, I deserve this.' I just wanted to make sure I came in and know plays, learn, and know my role."
With training camp only a few weeks away, Darby has a good idea as to how he will approach it.
"It's just another opportunity to get better, learn the playbook , and just have fun," he said. "I like Buffalo a lot. Fans are great, it gives you the college atmosphere. The city is so together with the team and it's just great."
