With the NFL Draft a week away, the waiting part is almost over for Justin Arias. What a relief.

Because for months he’s toiled away in the gym and on the field, honing his delivery and working into the best shape of his life.

The former ISU quarterback hopes to hear his name called at the NFL Draft that’s April 30-May 2 in Chicago. And if Arias isn’t drafted, he’ll try to earn a roster spot as an NFL free agent.

That’s been his goal since finishing last season at ISU with 4,076 passing yards, 38 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. As a two-year starter, Arias wrapped up his ISU career first all-time in passing touchdowns (64) and second in completions (676) and passing yards (7,971).

Despite the prolific numbers, the 6-foot signal caller is no sure bet to make the NFL. He isn’t on ESPN or NFL.com mock draft boards, and that might not mean a thing.

Arias has heard from his agent that the Chargers, Jets, Jaguars, 49ers, Patriots and Falcons are interested, and he believes the Vikings have spoken with ISU coaches.

Even better, Arias hasn’t caught wind of any negative feedback. Teams will tell a prospect a flat no based on their evaluations.

Still, Arias has continued to bide his time, grinding and hoping he’ll at least get a shot at the league.

Until then, though, Arias is headed to a camp with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League this weekend in Tampa, Florida.

For three days, he’ll go through meetings, tests and practices to see how he throws. Arias’ main objective is to leave a lasting positive impression so the CFL is still an option if the National Football League doesn’t come through.

Arias expects to be one of four quarterbacks in the camp. Calgary isn’t the only Canadian squad interested, either. But the CFL has negotiation lists, and it bars a player like Arias, who is on the Stampeders’ list, from any contact with other CFL squads.

Arias says that if he tells Calgary he’s stopped pursuing the NFL, the Stampeders have 10 days to offer a contract, or he can begin talking to other teams.

But that’s not what he’s focused on today. After attending Calgary’s camp, Arias will return to Pocatello and go back to the waiting game. The next big decision in his life will be whether to watch the draft on TV.

“It’s just been difficult to wait the whole time,” Arias said. “I’m happy it’s only a week away now and that whatever happens, whether I get drafted or sign a free agent (deal) or just go to the CFL, at least I’ll be doing something. Working out, waiting around hasn’t been that exciting.”