Jeremy Maclin, the former Mizzou WR and two-time All American and first round draft pick of the Philadelphia Eagles, is prepping for his first pro season. In this article from the KC Star, he notes a difference in the relationship between players in the NFL vs. college ball.
Maclin also realizes the pro camaraderie is not the same as college camaraderie.
Losing a receiving spot or a return spot to Maclin may not simply lead to a spot on the bench for another Eagle. It may wind up as a loss of livelihood.
“They’re very accepting,” Maclin said of his new pro teammates. “But obviously you’ve got guys who’ve got families, who need the money, who will do anything they can to get the money.
“It’s just a little different.”
The loss of a starting spot in college can also make a difference in after-school livelihood. But it's not so clear-cut that a player will even have a chance to play in the pros.