Throughout his football career, Merrimack College’s Cole Birdow battled relentlessly for his opportunity to shine.
Now, he has the chance to open NFL eyes.
During his stay at Merrimack, after not seeing the field much through three years as a defensive lineman, he took on a proposition from former head coach Dan Curran to become an offensive lineman.
Birdow flourished as an offensive guard the past two years, and that switch has paid off. The 6-foot-5, 311-pound Westminster, Maryland resident has been invited to the New England Patriots Pro Day on Wednesday.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to show my skills. I’m happy to be able to do it for Merrimack and bring more attention to the program in any way possible,” he said.
Before coming to Merrimack, Birdow had previously committed to Old Dominion University in Virginia. He changed plans, came to Merrimack but struggled to get on the field.
“I was a rotational player but didn’t see the field the way I wanted. Then coach Curran came to me with the proposition of playing offensive line and I decided to take the opportunity and run with it,” he said.
With just two years of offensive line experience under his belt, he’s planning on displaying his overall talent and skills.
“I gained a lot of knowledge and confidence on that side of the ball and will continue to progress my football IQ. I’m a fast learner and very coachable as all my coaches can attest to it,” he said. “I’m just looking forward most to getting an opportunity to showcase why I belong where I am and willingness to compete at the highest level against the best.”