However, that wouldn't be the case for the receiver who ranks third all-time on Miami's receiving list. Nance suffered a season-ending knee injury in the fifth game of the 2004 season and never quite made it back to that plateau before the injury. He did rebound nicely and finished strong to end his college career.

In 2005, Nance had 81 receptions for 1,107 yards and 14 touchdowns. He averaged 13.7 yards per catch and 100 yards per game. Still, the once-dominant receiver who at one time was looked upon as being a surefire first-round draft pick, went undrafted.

That was then, this is now.

The journey begins ...

Nance signed with the Buffalo Bills as an undrafted free agent and went to training camp with the team, but was released by the club just before the start of the season after a strong showing in camp. His release raised some eyebrows and was a shock to many, including Nance.

"It was a shocker," Nance said. "One reason why it was a shocker to me is because in college you're so used to everything being based on strictly performance, and at the pro level sometimes there are other things that factor into it. That's an adjustment you have to make as a young player. So that was a lesson learned for me."

It didn't take long for the Minnesota Vikings to snatch up the 6-foot-4, 213-pound receiver and sign him to the team's practice squad a few days after his release from Buffalo. Nance has occupied a spot on the Vikings' practice squad since signing with the club and patiently waited to hear his name called to join the 53-man roster. Well, that time came Tuesday when the Vikings signed Nance to the active roster.

Nance was enthused about being called up and knows what it will take to remain on the active roster.

"Consistency is the first thing," he said. "At this level you have to play well and use the right techniques, but you have to do it consistently. I think if I can show them that I can play up to my potential consistently I have a good shot."

The Vikings run a West Coast-style offense, which is perfectly suited for a receiver like Nance, would could flourish once he is groomed and developed.

Knowing the player the way I do — and his ability to play the wide-out position — I believe it's just a matter of time before he reaches prominence once again.