Marcus Mariota does not plan to go to Chicago for the NFL Draft later this month, but his reasoning is far from wanting to enjoy the experience privately.

ESPN's NFL insider Adam Schefter learned the reigning Heisman Trophy winner will stay home in Hawaii for the draft, but will allow ESPN and the NFL Network to film and broadcast his experience. This year represents a venue change for the NFL Draft, moving from New York City to Chicago, and the event will be switching cities in years to come as well.

The league is not off to a good start. Mariota and Jameis Winston, arguably the most recognizable college stars in the draft class and the top two quarterbacks to boot, will both be staying home on draft day. Ultimately, all that means is neither will be on stage with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell when they are selected, but it can also be seen as a devaluation of one of the league's biggest events.

Schefter learned that when Mariota told the NFL of his decision to stay home in Hawaii, he said it was important to him "personally and culturally."

A majority of Polynesian athletes play rugby rather than American football. Though players like Troy Polamalu, Junior Seau, Lofa Tatupu and more have represented the Pacific Islands well in the NFL, they are still in the minority in pro football. Even more in the minority are Polynesian quarterbacks.

Mariota's decision could then be beneficial to the NFL in the long run, as he hopes to attract more aspiring Pacific Islander football players.