Shaun Dolac is the kind of football player who embodies perseverance and grit. Coming from the University at Buffalo, he quickly caught national attention as one of college football’s toughest linebackers. Despite facing setbacks and being overlooked in major pre-draft showcases, Dolac’s journey to the NFL is both inspiring and instructive.

Setting Records at Buffalo

During his impressive college career, Shaun Dolac led the nation with an outstanding 168 tackles in his senior year. He finished his tenure at Buffalo with 391 tackles, 12.5 sacks, and six interceptions over 49 games. Dolac was named a Consensus All-American and earned the MAC Defensive Player of the Year title.

His on-field performance wasn’t just about numbers. Dolac’s relentless pursuit of the ball and his leadership on defense set him apart from his peers. Despite these achievements, he was not invited to marquee events like the NFL Combine or the Senior Bowl. Still, Dolac made the most of his opportunities, excelling at the University at Buffalo’s pro day.

For an in-depth look at his collegiate achievements and NFL potential, visit the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle’s profile on Shaun Dolac's journey to the Rams.

The Road to the NFL

Although Dolac went undrafted in 2025, his perseverance paid off. The Los Angeles Rams quickly signed him as an undrafted free agent. This opportunity marks another stage in Dolac’s career—a chance to bring his blue-collar mentality and “chip on the shoulder” attitude to the professional level.

His work ethic was evident at the Bills’ local pro day, where Dolac impressed scouts with his strength, speed, and agility. He recorded an unofficial 40-yard dash of 4.55 seconds, 25 bench press reps, and a vertical jump over 32 inches. These measurements would have ranked him among the top linebackers at the combine, confirming his pro-level athleticism.

Learn more about Dolac’s pre-draft journey and his mindset in Sports Illustrated’s feature on Shaun Dolac's draft experience and pro day.

Overcoming Doubt and Embracing Opportunity

Shaun Dolac’s story resonates with athletes and fans alike because he never allowed adversity to dictate his future. From walking on at Buffalo to earning a scholarship and dominating on defense, Dolac continued to beat the odds.

NFL teams are looking for players who can perform under pressure and never quit. Dolac fits that description perfectly. With the Rams needing linebacker depth, Dolac’s arrival in Los Angeles is more than a personal win—it’s a testament to resilience and hard work paying off.

What’s Next for Shaun Dolac?

As Dolac begins his NFL career with the Rams, all eyes will be on his transition from college star to professional linebacker. His determination and skills have already won over fans in Buffalo, and now, he’ll have the chance to compete at the highest level.

In following Shaun Dolac’s journey, aspiring athletes and supporters are reminded that talent combined with relentless effort opens doors, even when the odds seem stacked against you. Keep an eye on this Buffalo standout—his story is far from over.

For more details about Shaun Dolac’s achievements or updates on his NFL journey, explore the in-depth reports linked above. Stay tuned as Dolac aims to leave his mark with the Rams and inspire young players everywhere.