Mock draft season never ends.
We're barely three weeks removed from the 2018 draft and pundits have already posted their "way too early" mocks for 2019.
Cornerback Brandon Facyson was a common name in those a year ago, with some experts believing he'd be at worst, a day two pick. Some even thought he'd be a first rounder.
However, the Virginia Tech product ended up going undrafted, opting to sign with the Chargers over a litany of suitors.
He just may end up proving to be a diamond in the rough.
After all, Facyson is a 6-2, 203-pound cornerback with long arms (32 5/8th) and impressive speed (4.53).
Not only that, but he proved to be one of the top corners in college football when healthy, ranking as Virginia Tech's all-time leader in passes defensed. He burst onto the scene with a dominating 2013 season as a true-freshman, earning third-team All-ACC honors after notching five interceptions and 13 passes defensed.
Unfortunately, Facyson suffered a series of leg injuries the following year which slowed his progression. He did manage to start 25 of 28 games over his final two seasons with the Hokies, looking like a lock to be selected in the draft.
Although some undrafted free agents become disenchanted and discouraged over not hearing their name called, Facyson is grateful to be in this position with the Bolts.
"I have my own path, and God has my own path already laid out," he said. "I expected to get drafted, but it's not my job to question him or what's in store for me. It's my job to just go with it. I'm just here and thankful for the opportunity, and will make the best of it. I'm thankful for the Chargers for giving me the opportunity. I'm here to earn that spot and my rank. That's what I'm here to do. I'm appreciative for it."
While Facyson is certainly humble, he also doesn't lack for confidence, evidenced by his response when asked if the Chargers landed a diamond in the rough after the draft.
"I think so," he said. "I'm long, and I'm a physical guy. I'm fast enough to run with receivers. I put my heart into this game. Regardless of what happened in the past injury-wise, you're going to get a guy who will be a warrior out here. I'm looking to earn my rank."
Facyson was highly coveted once the draft ended, but immediately knew where he wanted to sign. One look at the talent on the roster and the coaches he'd play for was all it took.
"I was definitely eager to learn from All-Pro and Pro Bowl guys (like Casey Hayward and Jason Verrett)," he explained. "Those are some of the greats. I want to pick their minds and learn from them things I can do to get better every single day. This is the best fit for me. I love the coaches here. You have to look at all those things, and the coaches were a big part of it."
While Facyson is eager to learn from the cornerbacks on the current roster, he already boasts a relationship with a former Charger who is also one of the best DBs in Virginia Tech history.
Brandon Flowers.
"I've seen him at school a few times, and he told me just be professional." Facyson said. "Just go in there and work hard every single day. Don't take it for granted. I look up to him being from Virginia Tech."
