Tonka Hemingway: The Untold Story (Part 1)

Tonka Hemingway’s Journey to the NFL: A Draft Diary

As former South Carolina defensive lineman Tonka Hemingway (2020-2024) sets his sights on the NFL, he reflects on his five years with the Gamecocks, where he earned his degree and made significant contributions to the team. A two-time Second Team All-SEC honoree and a Third Team All-SEC selection, Hemingway shares his preparation for the NFL Draft in April, including his experiences playing in the Shrine Bowl.

Tonka’s Draft Diary (Part 1)

“The last few weeks have been all about focusing on the finer details—improving my techniques and being efficient with my movements, whether it’s making cuts or quick transitions. I’ve also been working on my understanding of the game, which is crucial for taking that next step,” Hemingway said. “I’m training in Pensacola, Florida, and when I’m not on the field, I’m studying film.”

After his bowl game, Hemingway returned home for a brief two-day break to pack before diving into his preparation. “I’ve been working hard since then, including my time at the East-West Shrine Bowl, and it’s been a grind ever since.”

Reflecting on his final season at Carolina, Hemingway shared how special it was to help the team win nine games. “It meant a lot. Our defensive line coach, Travian Robertson, always told us to leave the program better than we found it. It felt great to leave it in a good place, knowing the younger guys now have a standard to aim for.”

South Carolina was a formative experience for Hemingway. “The fans and the community were amazing. It was an honor to spend all five years there. The support from everyone was incredible.”

Regarding his time at the Shrine Bowl, Hemingway went in with a clear goal. “I just wanted to prove I belonged and that I could play at a high level, that my skill set could transition to the next level,” he explained. “The experience was fantastic. Meeting everyone and seeing how our team clicked was awesome. It was different from what we usually do, but we were all focused on making plays, having fun, and remembering that it’s still the game we’ve been playing our whole lives.”

Now, Hemingway is eagerly anticipating his next step. “I’m just looking forward to getting that phone call and getting my shot,” he said with excitement.

Off the field, Hemingway draws advice from his brother, Junior, who played in the NFL with the Kansas City Chiefs.

“He tells me to be myself, not to try to be like anyone else. Keep my head down and stay focused,” Hemingway shared.

He also reflected on the balance between college life and preparing for the NFL. “In college, you have practice, training, and school. Now, after workouts and film sessions, I’ve had to find something else to do with my extra time. It’s been a little different.”

Despite being ready for the NFL, Hemingway admits he doesn’t yet miss college life. “Not yet. I’ve got my degree in public health, and that means a lot to me. Being the youngest of four, it felt special to walk across that stage and make my parents proud. Having that degree to fall back on is important because, as they always say, the ball stops spinning for everyone eventually.”

As he waits for the NFL Draft, Hemingway remains calm but eager. “I wouldn’t say I’m nervous, just excited and ready to get started.”

For Tonka Hemingway, the journey is far from over. He’s simply awaiting the opportunity to prove himself at the next level.