J.J. Nelson adjusting to life as a pro at Arizona Cardinals rookie mini camp

J.J. Nelson, a fifth-round pick and the 159th overall selection in the 2015 NFL Draft, experienced his first day at Arizona Cardinals rookie mini camp.

“It was great putting on an NFL helmet, especially, you know, the Arizona Cardinals,” said Nelson.

Nelson, the smallest and fastest player on the roster, has the attention of Cards head coach Bruce Arians.

“He’s telling me the little things,” said Nelson in reference to coach Arians’ feedback during camp. “What I did right, what I did wrong, what I need to clean up. He’s doing a pretty good job of helping me and I’m hoping to grow with the things he’s teaching me.”

The former UAB star led the nation in kickoff returns, averaging 38.3 yards per attempt in 2014, while taking four back for touchdowns. But the NFL is a serious step up in competition, so Nelson is making the necessary adjustments to thrive at the pro level.

“Just getting the feel of the game, the playbook and learning the NFL terminology,” he said.

Nelson was one of seven players the Cardinals selected in the NFL Draft earlier this month. He’s enjoying the opportunity to meet his new teammates.

“This is our first time getting together,” said Nelson. “Rally around the guys and coming together and being a family.”

Nelson has yet to meet any vets on the team.

“No, not yet, it’s coming. can’t wait,” said Nelson. “Waiting for that moment to come out and compete with them, as well as Patrick Peterson and Tyrann Mathieu and all those type of guys. I just want to come out and compete and have fun.”