Janovich achieves dream, drafted by Broncos in 6th round

One of the biggest fan favorites in recent Nebraska football memory achieved a life-long dream on Saturday, as former Husker fullback Andy Janovich was taken by the Denver Broncos with the 176th overall pick in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL Draft.

A former walk-on who worked his way to earn a scholarship and eventually a key role in NU’s offense last season, Janovich once again made the most of his opportunities when he put on an impressive showing at the NFL Combine back in February.

His 30 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press tied for the most of any running back or fullback at the combine, and were more than 36 of the 45 offensive linemen who participated.

Add in a 4.81 40-yard dash, a 34-inch vertical jump, and a 7.28 three-cone drill, and Janovich clearly opened some eyes around NFL front offices.

But anyone who had watched the 6-foot-1, 238-pound native of Gretna, Neb., during his time as a Husker already knew his value went far beyond the measurables.

Not only did he post the best rushing season of his career last year with 42 carries for 265 yards and three touchdowns, Janovich displayed his exceptional lead blocking ability on a weekly basis and was even a major contributor on special teams.

In fact, his 13 tackles last year were more than several players in NU’s regular defensive rotation, including starting defensive tackle Vincent Valentine (10), who was drafted by the New England Patriots three rounds earlier by the third.

Even though the role of the fullback in the NFL is fading more and more by the year, a player with Janovich’s versatility is expected to make an impact in one way or another.

“I’m thrilled about it," Janovich told reporters Saturday. "With the whole draft and everything, I wasn’t sure what was going to happen. I’m really excited to come here. I think that fullback is kind of a dying breed nowadays, but I’m excited to come in, contribute and do what I can for the team.”

With his selection, Janovich became the 24th player who came to Nebraska as a walk-on to be drafted. He joined the likes of John Parrella, Adam Treu, Sam Koch, Scott Shanle, Jimmy Williams, Joel Mackovicka, and more on that list.