“It makes me a little sad, because I didn’t want to leave. I really liked it in Quebec, but it was something I had to do. I have a lot of love for Quebec and the Rouge et Or.”
Former Laval University Rouge et Or defensive back Jordan Lessard is adamant that he couldn’t pass up such an opportunity south of the border. Lessard made history last Thursday, when he became the first player in the history of Quebec university football to move from the RSEQ to the NCAA, joining the Colorado State University Rams. Like many young football players, Lessard always dreamed of one day playing in the NFL.
“When I started playing football, it was always clear that I always wanted to play in the NFL. Of course, the CFL is fun, but I have the talent to play in the NFL in a year,” said Lessard, who appeared on the show 5 to 7.
Even if this new stage of his career brings him closer to his dream, the 22-year-old player would not have left Quebec to join any program and was far from being motivated only by money.
“It really had to be a great opportunity. I know the coaches at Colorado State a little bit. I know the head coach, Jim Mora, has coached in the NFL before. They told me I have the opportunity to play my last year of college next year. It’s the perfect situation for me, rejoices Lessard. It’s not just about money. The apartment is right next to the school. I have a good relationship with coachswho have already trained Quebecers. The opportunity was too perfect so I couldn’t say no. »
Lessard went to visit his future facilities with his parents at the beginning of January. In particular, he had the opportunity to chat with Mora, who was inspiring.
“I asked him who the best player he had coached was and he said: Deion Sanders. It’s cool to hear things like that. If I play enough next year, he has contacts everywhere to help me end up in the NFL. »
On the other hand, Lessard affirms that his former coach, Glen Constantin, supports him in his approach. For the defensive back, the RSEQ is an excellent school with a view to one day reaching the highest heights.
“It’s been a while since I told Glen I was going to leave. We had a nice conversation right after the season. He understood 100% that it was the right decision for me. There are a lot of good players who have come out of Laval, like Mathieu Betts and Antony Auclair. You can get to the NFL or CFL by playing four or five years here. »
Even if he is not guaranteed to be a starter next season with the Rams, Lessard will have the chance to prove himself and show the extent of his talent in order to carve out a position.
“They told me I was going to get my chance. They lost a lot of defensive backs last year. It will be open for everyone. »
