Quarterback Easton Stick isn’t new to winning. As he steps up to take on a more significant role with the Los Angeles Chargers, Stick knows the transition from college stardom at North Dakota State University (NDSU) to the NFL won’t be seamless. However, his confidence remains unshaken. “I understand North Dakota State is not the National Football League,” Stick said in a recent interview, “but I’m used to winning.”
During his time at NDSU, Stick led the Bison to back-to-back FCS national championships and left the program with an impressive 49-3 record. He knows that success in the NFL requires a different level of preparation, skill, and mental fortitude. But Stick is undeterred. “Winning is about preparation, work ethic, and mentality. Those things don’t change, no matter where you play,” he asserts.
Stick’s opportunity with the Chargers comes at a crucial time. With Justin Herbert firmly entrenched as the starting quarterback, Stick has been learning from the sidelines, absorbing as much as he can. “Justin’s been a great teammate, and I’ve learned a lot just watching him play, seeing how he reads defenses and commands the huddle,” Stick explains. “It’s an invaluable experience.”
Chargers’ head coach Brandon Staley has praised Stick’s work ethic and attitude, noting, “Easton’s a competitor. He brings that winning mentality every day, and you can see it in how he approaches his preparation.” Staley emphasizes that the team values Stick’s drive to win, which he believes can positively influence the entire roster.
Stick remains realistic about the challenges ahead but is eager to prove himself in the NFL. “I’m here to compete,” Stick affirms. “I know winning won’t come easy, but I’m ready to bring that same mindset I had at NDSU to the Chargers.” For Stick, it’s all about translating his college winning ways to the professional level, one snap at a time.
