Former Blue Hen WR Vinny Papale looking to create his own underdog story
NEWARK, Del. (BVM) – Many football fans know the story, especially in Philadelphia. Vince Papale, a part-time bartender and substitute teacher in the Philadelphia area, threw his hat in the ring at an open tryout to join the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles despite being 30 years old and never playing a down of football in college. That didn’t matter though as his hard work and tenacity earned Papale a coveted spot on the roster where he would remain for four seasons mostly as a special teamer. Many learned of Papale’s journey through the Disney movie “Invincible” which came out in 2006 but have now been left without answers to what Papale’s life was following the events of the movie.
Well, long story short, Papale and his love interest in the movie, Janet, got married in 1993 and shortly thereafter had two children, Gabriella and Vincent, who goes by Vinny. While it may not be surprising to learn that Vinny followed his dad’s footsteps to play football, what may come as a surprise is just how successful Vinny has been.
Vinny was selected in the 17th round of the USFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Bandits on Feb. 23, allowing the youngest Papale to keep his football career going. Much like his father before him, Vinny was never handed anything and has had to work to get where he is today and that is shown through his numerous stops during his football career.
The final pick of the round is in! #BanditBall pic.twitter.com/mXmRbfMG1b
— Tampa Bay Bandits (@USFLBandits) February 23, 2022
After starting three years on varsity football at Bishop Eustace High School in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey, Vinny was able to do something his father never was: play college football. Vinny would attend the University of Delaware where he’d play all four years.
During his time with the Blue Hens, Vinny would record 1,020 all-purpose yards as both a receiver and return man. His best year would come as a senior when Vinny recorded 36 catches for 618 yards and six touchdowns for the Blue Hens. This earned Vinny an opportunity as an undrafted free agent with the then Oakland Raiders in 2019. He would also earn tryouts with both the then Washington Redskins and Philadelphia Eagles, though he would not make any 53-man roster.
Despite not making the NFL, Vinny would not give up on his football career. In May 2020, Vinny signed with the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League, but due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic at the time, was unable to play any games before being released in October 2020.
Though these up-and-downs could take a toll on any athlete, Vinny refused to give up. Instead, the 6-foot-1, 205-pound wide receiver would sign with the Conquerors of the Spring League, an NFL developmental league, where he was coached by former NFL head coach Jerry Glanville. Throughout the five-game season, Papale was able to show the ability he had to still compete at a high level.
FIRST HALF HIGHLIGHTS
⚔️ vs. 🛩️#TSL2021 | @FOXSports pic.twitter.com/8ulTXsAmCx
— The Spring League 🏈 (@TheSpringLeague) May 21, 2021
His play has now earned him an opportunity in the newest football league, the USFL. While the league may be in its infancy, it provides Vinny another opportunity to keep his football career and dreams going.
Who doesn't love a good Hollywood remake? #BanditBall pic.twitter.com/VypeFqYxsC
— Tampa Bay Bandits (@USFLBandits) February 23, 2022
Just like his father before him, Vinny has not been given anything easy. He’s had to fight, scratch, and claw for everything he’s done so far in his career. With a mentality like that, don’t expect Vinny’s football career to end anytime soon.
The USFL inaugural season will begin on April 16.
