Ask any coach, and I mean ANY coach, and he/she will tell you that they prefer a hard worker over talent nine times out of 10. Hard workers do more than develop themselves, they set the example for their teammates to work hard. Highly talented players rely on their talent. When things get tough they get frustrated or quit or try to take over the team at the team's expense, which is not good for the psyche of the entire team.
Think RGIII (talented athlete) vs. Tom Brady (hard worker)—who is the more successful team player? Individual player? Talent has a role, but working hard has the greatest payoff. Yes, you can have talent AND work hard, that's what Coach DP is looking for. But you have to know where to find that combination. I think Dave knows.