The energy inside the Raising Cane’s in Pittsburgh felt a lot like the calm before the storm.

Hours before arguably one of the biggest days of their lives, projected top 5 draft picks, Arvell Reese and Jeremiyah Love, clocked in for a shift serving some local celebs, including Dance Moms star Brooke Hyland, participating in some friendly Cane’s-themed competition, and building anticipation for the upcoming NFL Draft.

It was the kind of event that on the surface looks like fun and games, and it was, but after spending time around these two, it’s clear opportunities like these are dreams come true.

These young men are standing at a genuinely significant crossroad in their lives, and they both seem to understand what this next chapter could mean for their futures.

Set against the backdrop of one of the NFL’s most iconic draft cities, the event captured everything Pittsburgh does best: stunning views, gritty charm, and a crowd that really knows sports.

Love noticed it too, describing the moment you emerge from the Fort Pitt Tunnel as one of the highlights of his time in the city so far.

Love’s parents, both lifelong Steelers fans, were equally taken with being here

“It’s especially special for them,” he explained.

The press conference revealed a grounded, thoughtful side of both prospects.

When asked about the whirlwind draft process, the emphasis wasn’t on fame—it was on connection.

“My favorite part is just meeting a bunch of coaches and different people,” Reese shared. “You never know where you might end up.”

That humility carried throughout the conversation, especially when discussing how they want to be perceived at the next level.

“We’re going to become professionals… but we’re still human beings,” Love said.

That balance of elite talent with real-life perspective is exactly what makes both players so compelling heading into draft night.

Reese echoed a similar mindset, highlighting the importance of relationships beyond football. “This process has been all about connecting with people… because you never know when the game is gonna be over.”

Of course, it wouldn’t be a Raising Cane’s event without a little fun.

After the media session, the tone shifted as the two competed in Cane’s-themed challenges, including a lemon squeezing contest that had everyone laughing. Between bites of their go-to orders—”box combo, no coleslaw, extra toast with a Hi-C” and “sandwich combo”—they leaned into the moment, blending personality with performance in a way that felt authentic and effortlessly marketable.

Even their off-field routines felt relatable. From watching anime to spending time with friends, both players showed they know how to “block out the noise,” a phrase rooted in discipline and focus. “Keep the main thing the main thing,” Love said simply.

As the countdown to the draft ticks closer, events like this do more than promote an amazing brand, they humanize these athletes and build connection with fans that will last throughout their undoubtedly successful careers.

In a city that lives and breathes football, Raising Cane’s created a space where these future stars could shine before their spotlight gets even brighter.