I think the quote actually means he is going to make them work their ass off in practice. More of a they will earn the right to wear this jersey kind of comment than they need to understand the significance when they sign up. Pope himself was a transfer and not from the state but he understands it. I think this also explains two defensive minded guys being the first to join him, those kind of guys aren’t scared of tough practicesYou really need to let go of the silly notion that guys are coming to play for the name on the front of the jersey. That started being phased out in the 90s, and was blown to pieces once NIL came about.
These kids want to get paid and they could care less whether it’s UK, Duke, or Toledo doing it. As long as those checks are clearing.