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Published on: 2/8/2007
Last Visited: 3/1/2007
Year in Review - Wallace Wright
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Rookie wide receiver Wallace Wright's hard work, flexibility, and response to adversity molded him into a prototypical New York Jets' player.
After signing with the Jets last May as an undrafted free agent, Wright earned a spot on the practice squad to start the season.In week six, Wright was recognized for his hard work when he was awarded Practice Player of the Week by head coach Eric Mangini for his preparation before a 20-17 New York win over Miami on October 15.
"When we originally brought him in for a tryout, he had all the characteristics we looked for in our draft picks and undrafted free agents," Mangini said of Wright.
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After 11 weeks as a member of the practice squad, Wright was an official member of the New York Jets active roster.
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"With Wallace, that was the case.
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"Wallace was one of those guys that was a tryout guy, and he worked like crazy and got a contract.He went into training camp and was noticed there.Each day as you turned the film on, there were one or two plays where he became recognizable.He didn't allow us not to see him."
Wright continued to make progress and display versatility over the course of the season.
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Two seasons later, Wright earned a scholarship and contributed more on offense, hauling in 10 receptions for 119 yards and two touchdowns.
Wright then capped off his Tar Heel career by serving as the primary kickoff return man as a senior.Perhaps his most memorable Carolina moment came when he returned the opening kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown in a win over Boston College.The 6'0", 191-pounder also registered career-highs of 12 catches and 176 receiving yards.
When Wright was called up to the active roster before the team traveled to Lambeau Field, he wasn't seen as just a fresh body to have around for precautionary reasons heading down the home stretch.The rookie contributed to the Jets' 26-13 win at Minnesota on December 17, racking up three special teams tackles.
"It is a dream come true," said Wright of finding his place on an NFL roster.