When Denver took Boston College Safety Justin Simmons in the 3rd round of the NFL Draft this year, many predicted he would become the future of the No Fly Zone, learning from incumbent Super Bowl Champs T.J. Ward and Darian Stewart. There’s another rookie however, that might be turning some heads come August. Will Parks, another Safety taken 219th from Arizona, could be a huge steal for GM John Elway and co.

Coming from humble beginnings in North Philly, Parks knew football might be his only ticket to success.

“When my dad put that football in my hand, it was just like, ‘This is your tool. This is your way out. This is a way to make a better life for yourself’,” said Parks.

Of course, there are many players in the league with a similar story, but it seems Parks’ college career could be a harbinger of success in the NFL. The past two seasons, Parks has finished top 4 in tackles for the Wildcats, leading the team with 76 tackles in 2015. Additionally, his versatility could prove to be a huge asset in Denver. Pro Football Focus named him as their highest rated cornerback in 2014, and he saw the majority of his time last year as a Safety/Linebacker hybrid.

Perhaps the most intriguing part of Parks becoming a Bronco, which plays heavily in his favor, is the team’s knack for developing late-round and even un-drafted talent. 5 key pieces of the Broncos Super Bowl winning team, including 4 on the defensive side, all went in the 5th round or later in their respective drafts. Starting LBs Brandon Marshall and Danny Trevathan, DT Malik Jackson, CB Chris Harris Jr and RB C.J. Anderson were crucial in Denver’s championship run, and benefited from having a chip on their shoulder as late round or un-drafted rookies.

Fortunately for Parks, he now has the chance to learn from some of these players, and turn his hunger and motivation into success. Indeed, he certainly isn’t lacking in any form of motivation, stating “I don’t want it. I need it…This is the only thing I have in life for me. I’d probably be at home flipping McDonald’s burgers if I didn’t have this opportunity right now.” If Parks is to succeed in this league, it seems like he’s found a perfect situation in Denver.