It’s no secret that Michael Mauti wants to become an NFL linebacker. But how bad does he want it? According to NFL Network’s (and Penn State graduate) Kimberly Jones, Mauti sent handwritten notes to all 32 NFL general managers explaining how much football means to him.

According to Jones, “they’re impressed.”

Luckily for Mauti, his performance on the field and phenomenal leadership off of it did not go unnoticed last year. Here’s NFL draft expert Mel Kiper on Mauti’s NFL prospects:

“(Knee) injuries are the main concern, but he’s a great kid. His father (Rich) played in the NFL. On the (Penn State) team, everybody gravitates to him.

“He’s had a phenomenal career and battle through some injuries. That’s going to be the concern. But when he was healthy, he looked like a second-round possibility.”

CBS Sports currently has Mauti at a late fifth/early sixth round pick. If Mauti’s knee is able to recover, some NFL team is going to get a late bargain.