Lawrence Okoye has admitted that he will have to work hard if he is to have a successful career in the NFL.
The British discus record-holder, who competed at the London Olympics, impressed scouts during the league's Super Regional Combine earlier this month.
The 21-year-old told The Telegraph: "The biggest test for me is just to learn the game. I can't worry about the other guys who've played their whole lives. From what coaches have told me, after watching me in drills, I've got all the attributes you need. It's just about how hard I work.
"They've told me I can make it happen and that's the good thing about my situation. I'm in control of the outcome. If I keep studying film and working hard on the game itself, I can go somewhere in American football.
"I'm as certain as I can be that I will end up with a team at the end of the month, but whether or not I play in the NFL is down to me. But I know how hard I intend to work so I feel positive."
The former rugby union player reportedly met with the San Francisco 49ers and New Orleans Saints last week.
He is one of several British players available to NFL teams in next week's draft, along with Menelik Watson, Tom Wort and Eze Obiora.
Sian Cowper
