It is an exciting time for several local men who will soon begin their careers in the National Football League. 

And it is a time for northwest Ohioans who have watched them play for the last several years to feel proud.

Former Central Catholic and University of Notre Dame quarterback DeShone Kizer became the second-highest Toledo native to be drafted since 1973 when the Cleveland Browns selected him in the second round, the 52nd overall pick. University of Michigan defensive lineman Chris Wormley, who competed against Mr. Kizer while playing for Whitmer, was taken by the Baltimore Ravens with the 74th pick.

For the first time since the draft went to seven rounds in 1994, three University of Toledo players were selected: running back Kareem Hunt (Chiefs), tight end Michael Roberts (Lions), and defensive tackle Treyvon Hester (Raiders). Several other Toledo and Bowling Green players signed free-agent contracts.

For Mr. Kizer and Mr. Roberts, their landing spots ensured that Toledoans will be able to continue to follow their careers each week on local television.

Mr. Kizer was a three-sport star — football, basketball, and baseball — at Central Catholic. He led Central to the state title in 2012 and was The Blade’s player of the year in 2013. In Cleveland, he joins a team that has been looking for a solid quarterback since returning to the league in 1999.

Mr. Roberts had 45 catches for 533 yards and led the nation’s tight ends with 16 touchdowns last year for the Rockets. He will now be part of a high-powered Lions offense led by Mathew Stafford.

There are no guarantees in the NFL. One bad knee injury can end a career without a player earning dreamed-about riches. And even good health doesn’t guarantee longevity. According to a 2016 Wall Street Journal study, the average NFL career is only 2.66 years. There are still long roads ahead and challenges to overcome for local players, but no matter the outcome, they  have earned a permanent place in Toledo sports lore.

First Published May 6, 2017, 4:00 a.m.