Doug Baldwin: Passion And Hard Work Is The Secret

Doug Baldwin signed a new contract in the off-season, giving him roster security. The Seattle Seahawks made sure this undersized, undrafted receiver remains a Hawk for a while longer. 

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In 2011, this show of confidence was a long ways away, as Baldwin was just trying to make the team.

Growing up in Florida, Doug Baldwin was a gifted student athlete. His success drew attention from colleges across the country. He was a two sport star, excelling in football and track, as well as in the classroom. His selection of Stanford University gave Baldwin a national stage athletically, as well as a top education.

So, what was Baldwin’s reward after all the hard work and a solid college football career? Disrespect.

The 2011 NFL draft came and went for Doug Baldwin without being selected. His former coach at Stanford, Jim Harbaugh, even passed on him. Not one of the 32 teams saw Baldwin as anything but small. Not tall enough and not big enough for the NFL.

Scott Kane-USA TODAY Sports

Seems like Cleveland, Tampa Bay and Minnesota, who won 10 games combined in 2011, could have found a spot for him. Then again this is the Browns, the Bucs and the Vikings.

Nevertheless, Baldwin stayed positive and eventually Pete Carroll came calling. The Seahawks saw he had something far more valuable than size. He had a real passion for winning. Not surprisingly, Seattle found a place for Baldwin and he hasn’t disappointed since.

All Doug Baldwin did in his rookie year is lead the Seahawks in receptions and yards. This would mark the first time in league history that an undrafted free agent was the team leader in these categories. For Seattle, this “undersized” receiver was a step forward on the way to a championship.

Today Doug Baldwin is a highly respected football player. And although his emotions are tough to manage at times, his desire to win remains strong.

One can’t help but wonder how satisfying his 100 yard performance in last season’s NFC title game against San Francisco was. Along with Richard Sherman, a strong message was sent to Harbaugh: Your lack of faith will hurt your team for a long time.

So far, this message has been received loud and clear.

Doug Baldwin’s Career Stats at NFL.com

GO HAWKS!