2023 NFL Draft: Former Mallard Creek star Trenton Simpson picked up by Ravens

CHARLOTTE — Making it to the NFL is a goal many athletes dream of accomplishing from a young age.

For former Mallard Creek High School standout and Big 22 Player of the Year Trenton Simpson, that goal was set into motion long before he could even run, yet alone play football.

“As soon as he came out, when we were deciding the name, instead of going with his dad’s name I was like I want to go with something a little modern, that sounds professional,” said Dionna Ford, Trenton’s mother.

“I was like, Trenton Simpson sounds like a professional football player name!”

Simpson was selected by the Baltimore Ravens with the 86th overall pick during Round 3 of the 2023 NFL Draft.

“They are simply getting a star,” Ford told Channel 9′s DaShawn Brown before the pick was made.

Simpson is regarded as one of the top prospects at linebacker in this year’s draft class. He also earned his degree from Clemson University in just three years.

“All I focused on was ball and graduating,” Simpson said. “I just want to make my mom proud. Graduating from college I know means a lot more to her.”

>> In the video at the top of the page, Simpson and his mother talk about his journey to draft day and their special bond.

(WATCH BELOW: Mallard Creek HS celebrates Big 22 Player of the Year Trenton Simpson)

Mallard Creek HS celebrates Big 22 Player of the Year Trenton Simpson Mallard Creek HS celebrates Big 22 Player of the Year Trenton Simpson

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