49 : NFL Pro Interview : Quan Cosby
Follow @QCosby17 Follow @ProInterviews
[NEW Interview as of 12/20/2011]
Strauss : What was the transition like to the Denver Broncos?
Cosby : It was great. The Denver Broncos are a first class organization and special team. There are great veteran leaders and some young stars in the making.
Strauss : What has Tim Tebow been like to you?
Cosby : He’s great and the same with everyone. He’s a great teammate but I don’t have a specific memory to share about him, however a lot of them are just in the exciting games. Seeing his composure and leadership during them.
Strauss : What’s the difference between how Kyle Orton approached the team, and how Tim Tebow does?
Cosby : The main difference was experience. Kyle Orton had more years and went about the team as a veteran. Tim Tebow had to earn that respect and leadership role and he did that by his work ethic and his competitive nature.
Strauss : What is Coach John Fox really like?
Cosby : Coach Fox is the real deal. Although, lots of people are getting credit for our success this season. He is at the top of the hill. His leadership and coaching style are exactly what this team has needed. His belief in us transformed our mindset, when things didn’t look so well. If he continues to do this, he should be Coach of the Year!
[OLD Interview as of 11/22/2010]
Strauss : Why do you use twitter? How do you connect to your fans?
Cosby : Fans make our game the game it is although they can be tough on us at times for them to feel somewhat a personal connection to us(pro athletes) and have real conversations with us I believe mean a lot to them, and to us also. We’re as “human” as it gets and like fans to know and realize that…
Strauss : If you could meet anyone, who would it be and why?
Cosby : There are many I’d like to meet, but if I had to pick one that I haven’t already met, being as blessed as I am it would be any kid that has it similar and as tough as I did as a child so I could let him/her know they can do better then statistics tell them, and encourage them to do so. Again, I’m very fortunate and have met many inspirational people. Most of my time now is spent trying to encourage youth.
Strauss : How long have you played football?
Cosby : I have played football since the 7th grade.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Cosby : Yes, I went to a small school so I basically played every sport football basketball baseball and ran track. I believe all the sports help the other plus I just really love to compete, not to mention living in a small town it kept me busy and out of trouble, was drafted in baseball and played pro baseball for four and a half years.
Strauss : What was your MLB draft experience?
Cosby : It was cool, kind of crazy, with so many rounds and people but fortunately being drafted in the sixth. I didn’t have to wait as long and loved every second of my time in Pro Ball, lots of life long friends.
Strauss : What is your favorite baseball memory from Baseball? Why?
Cosby : My favorite memory would be in the rookie league and getting to the championship game, and the plays made to get there had a great year. And again, the guys on that team I’m still in touch with and became great friends.
Strauss : What is the most important thing baseball has taught you that helped you the most in football?
Cosby : Baseball taught me to get my degree. Every year, I saw so many guys get released and have nothing to fall back on. And, that was a major factor in me going back to college. In football its taught me the importance of consistency.
Strauss : What sparked a change for you to decide to go to Texas?
Cosby : I chose Texas because it felt right and what I believed God put on my heart through prayer.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory from Texas?
Cosby : The National Championship and Fiesta Bowl, but also many great times with friends away from football.
Strauss : What was the best thing you learned at Texas that has helped you the most in the NFL?
Cosby : I learned to compete daily.
Strauss : Who was your best buddy from Texas? What was the best memory you had with that player?
Cosby : Too many to name one, fighting together and sticking together, on and off the field would be the best memories.
Strauss : What was your NFL draft day experience like?
Cosby : It was great spent it with the icon Dr. Bill Cosby and ESPN.
Strauss : Were you expecting to get drafted?
Cosby : I wasn’t, I live life a little different hoped to, but in my life back has been against the wall many times and I was prepared for that and to handle that possibility.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory with the Bengals?
Cosby : Clinching the division last year, was special for my teammates and me and to see the fan appreciation as well
Strauss : What’s your favorite thing to do in spare time?
Cosby : Hang and chill with family and friends, that’s what life is really about football can be a bonus but life with friends and more importantly family is the best
Strauss : Do you have a nickname? What’s the story behind it?
Cosby : If you play professional sports in my opinion, we all do. Mine, mainly is Q of course because of my first name, no real story behind it.
Strauss : What is your favorite charity? Why?
Cosby : I’m a social work graduate, so I don’t have a favorite I love them all but I really like Make A Wish Foundation, those moments for those unfortunately involved sometimes are the only truly high moments of their life and in the end. It’s an awesome moment for both parties, when kids come to us we learn and appreciate the kids just as much as they do us.
Strauss : If you could describe yourself as any ice cream flavor, what would you be and why?
Cosby : Vanilla I am what I am, you can appreciate the norm or add a little something to get what you want, I change daily.
Strauss : What is your favorite quote? Why?
Cosby : “Live everyday like it’s your last.” …Because of the uncertainty of life of course.
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, do you have any advice for them?
Cosby : Get your education first but don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t… If you believe, there is always a possibility.
Strauss : Thank you Quan.
Cosby : Thank you Max.
34 : NFL Pro Interview : C.J. Mosley
I met C.J. Mosley at T.E.A.M. Elam Charity Event, http://prointerviews.org/events/first/
[Updated Interview as of 11/11/11]
Strauss : What is Jacksonville like?
Mosley : It’s pretty big, but still laid back. The people are real friendly here!!
Strauss : What’s it finally like wearing the number 99? Why do you wear it?
Mosley : It feels good. I feel like I’ve been reunited with a long lost friend or something… LOL!! I changed my number at the beginning of camp, but I did not really feel worthy of it then. I wear it with pride now. I wear #99 because Warren Sapp was my all-time favorite Defensive Tackle!!
Strauss : With the injuries to the defensive line, how important has your role become with the Jaguars?
Mosley : My role has always been the same. To fill in when needed. Nothing has changed, and I’m very excited to have and do this job!
Strauss : What was your first sack like with the Jaguars’ organization?
Mosley : I just got it vs. Houston!! I was very, very, very happy because I know how hard I worked to be on this team and actually be a guy my teammates and coaches can trust to grind along with them!! The 1st thing I did was point to the Jaguars bench!
Strauss : Who’s your best friend on the Jaguars? Do you have a good story to share from the season?
Mosley : Honestly, this team is filled with great people from the top of the roster to the bottom. But my fellow defensive line, I consider everyone of them to be my brothers except #69 Douz!! He’s not in the circle. Lol!! JK!! Yeah I got a quick, little story. So, during camp I was working on getting my weight down. That consisted of eating right and on a schedule. So I was eating a protein bar in meetings with my position coach which is really a normal thing to do. I was advised by Kampman to do it. So I’m eating the protein bar and I guess my position coach was having a bad day or something. All of a sudden out of nowhere he just starts yelling at me saying, “Don’t be eating no F$&$&ng candy bars in here!!” Lol!! Everybody was dying laughing!! Clearly it’s a protein bar, not a candy bar, and clearly I was working on getting my body right by eating right. I looked at the “candy” bar with a look of disgust and threw it on the table which almost got me kicked out the room!! I haven’t had a protein bar since!! lol.
[Old Interview as of 07/25/2010]
Strauss : How long have you played football?
Mosley : I’ve played football as long as I could remember. Wasn’t organized football until the 7th grade.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Mosley : Yes, I did track and I placed 3rd in State in the shot.
Strauss : What is your favorite sport to play other than football?
Mosley : Basketball was always my 1st love. Most memorable, let me see. You know how LeBron does those trick shots at the before games! I had one that is gonna be pretty difficult to do again. I kicked a basketball a little ways out past half court and the ball went in the basket. Swish!!!! I ran out the gym screaming, and of course nobody saw it, but me. Lol!
Strauss : If you weren’t playing in the NFL, what would you want to do?
Mosley : Some type of production. I love movies, and 99% of the time I predict the outcome. And I love music, beats in particular, then lyrics. Hip Hop of course.
Strauss : When did you realize that you were going to play football in college and in the NFL?
Mosley : Probably like at age 12 or 13 I told myself I wanted to play pro ball. At like 16, I realized I had to go to college first, lol!!!
Strauss : What impact did your high school coach have on your career?
Mosley : My high school coach is Coach Vernon at Waynesville High School in Missouri. He had a lot to do with my success. He’s one of the reasons I made it this far. In high school I didn’t have a car, so every day I had to hustle for a ride home after practice or working out. My homeboy Jon Alexander scooped me a lot during the year. Or my brother Theo. But in the summer it was all Coach Vernon. He asked me how come I didn’t come to workout? I said I didn’t have a ride, so I wasn’t coming! He came and got me every day, or made sure some1 else picked me up if he couldn’t!!
Strauss : Describe the hardest change between high school and college football.
Mosley : Hardest change would be time. Just managing time. Yeah workouts was on some marine type stuff, but just managing time was ridiculous. Class from 8am-2:30am, then practice, then watch film after practice. Then study hall from 7-9pm because I needed to hit the books harder was tough. Maybe had 2 free hours out the day.
Strauss : Why did you choose number 99 at Missouri?
Mosley : Besides Warren Sapp, 99 is the last number on the roster and also the highest. Ain’t no going past 9nine 9nine.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory from Missouri?
Mosley : Several stick out. Best team moment is beating the Nebraska Cornhuskers for the 1st time in like 40+ years I think it was. I’ve had a lot of decent individual performances but personally my best moment had to be the vicious hit I put on KU’s quarterback Bill Whittemore.
Strauss : What was it like to earn First Team all Big 12 honors in 2004?
Mosley : A little weird. The Associated Press named me 1st Team and the coaches named me honorable mention in 04 when the coaches named me 2nd team All Big 12 the year before! So I thought that was funny. It’s documented, look it up!
Strauss : How had your game improved throughout your tenure at Missouri?
Mosley : In college, it was all athletic ability and my defensive coordinator at the time Coach Eberflus putting us in the right places to make plays.
Strauss : What did you learn from playing football at Missouri?
Mosley : At Mizzou, you were held accountable for your teammates actions as well as yours. Because what you do may hurt the team on and off the field.
Strauss : What impact did your college coach have on your pro career?
Mosley : Coach Craig Kuligowski is a great Defensive Line coach. Although his words weren’t the kindest, saying I’d probably get cut my first year in the league, I know he has a special place in his heart for me!!! Lolol.
Strauss : What was your draft day experience like?
Mosley : My draft letter was 2-4, so I was expecting to go anywhere in there. But as we all know, things sometimes don’t happen the way you wish for them to. It was the worst and best day of my life at the same time. Worst for going through the rounds and not hearing your name called and flash across that screen but best because it happened. And right before it did, Coach Tice of the Minnesota Vikings at the time called me and kept his word in drafting me also expressing how much he loved me. But not just saying it, actually showing me when I got there in Minnesota.
Strauss : What was going through your mind when you were drafted by the Vikings, 191st overall?
Mosley : Just every emotion you could have from being disappointed and angry to relieved and happy and appreciative to being wanted.
Strauss : What was it like to earn playing time in your first year in the NFL?
Mosley : It was a dream come true. Our Pro Bowl DT Kevin Williams got hurt, and Coach Baker sent me in to do a job. Had 7 tackles 2 sacks and 1 forced fumble with my 1st and 2nd sacks in the NFL vs the Browns.
Strauss : What was it like to get your first sack?
Mosley : The 1st sack in the NFL was the ultimate instant confidence booster. Ironically, it was against the Cleveland Browns QB, Trent Dilfer, which was also a strip sack!
Strauss : What do you expect from playing in the NFL?
Mosley : I just expect to be the best I can be, and fulfill my dream of being a champion.
Strauss : How has your game improved since college?
Mosley : Just being a smarter player. Knowing what to expect and what’s coming rather just being so aggressive and reckless.
Strauss : How important has film been to your development? What do you look for?
Mosley : Film is very important. In high school and college you can probably get away with not watching any film and just beast everyone. But since everyone on this level is roughly the same size, strength and speed, you have to find a way to gain an advantage and small tendencies like a formation or a O Lineman leaning a certain way can definitely give you a heads up on what is about to happen! I look fortendencies like O Lineman stance (is he heavy or not is a clue to run or pass) formations & down and distance.
Strauss : What is the hardest workout for you to complete?
Mosley : There is none really, I just act like they are all tough. Most irritating is probably super setting with a circuit.
Strauss : How has the number process worked throughout your entire NFL Career?
Mosley : I was drafted as 96, and I chose that because I was drafted in the 6th round. And if your not a high pick in the draft your not going to have a lot of room to work with or be choosy about. So I was really a victim of that with 95 and 69. But the theory behind 69 is I just flipped a 9 off 99. Now freaking Scott Fujita has 99….
Strauss : What has been the hardest thing for you to do since you started playing football?
Mosley : Playing through the pain, not physical but mental. Playing through the loss of loved ones. Both Grandparents on my father side, and Great Grandmother and Grandmother on my mothers side past in a close time frame to each other. Capped off by my Grandfather Richard Hope having a stroke a couple days after his wife had one. And finally my heart, my mother Angela Mosley passing from breast cancer.
Strauss : Who gave you the nickname C.J. and what about Big Downs?
Mosley : My father, I’m Calvin Jr. My real nick name is “Big Downs” given to me by my college roommate and best friend now Orlando Gooden! If it was a big down in the game like 3rd down, I tried to make it my duty to put the team on my back and make a big play! So “Big Downs”, I listened to K Rino enough to think of a cool acronym. “Downs” Destroying Obstacles With Nonstop Success.
Strauss : What is your favorite charity? Why? Why do you donate?
Mosley : My favorite are Brad Smith or Abe Elam’s charity events. Brad because that’s my guy, but Abe because of his story and what he stands for. I donate to give back, and if you can’t donate $, it donate your time. It’s important for our youth to actually see us so they realize their dreams are not that far from reality since we could have similar stories or backgrounds.
Strauss : What was your favorite part of the Abe Elam event where we met?
Mosley : Definitely the bowling, that was plenty of fun and relaxing, but seeing the kids was also great. Oh, and next time you challenge me, get some lessons so you stand a chance against me! Lolol.
Strauss : Could you have predicted how far football was going to carry you?
Mosley : Of course not. Although it was my dream, at one point I thought I might not even get the chance to play because I was drafted so late, expecting to go earlier. But everything happens for a reason and I wouldn’t take the experience back for nothing because it made me want to work even harder.
Strauss : What is an experience that changed your life?
Mosley : Definitely meeting my beautiful wife Cassandra Mosley, who is going to be a killer real estate agent in South Florida.
Strauss : What is your favorite quote?
Mosley : “Each battle is won before it is ever fought.”
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, do you have any advice for them?
Mosley : Don’t try to do too much growing up too fast. Be a kid and handle what your supposed to handle. Take care of school then football, and everything else will come.
Strauss : So, C.J., who was your childhood star? Why?
Mosley : Warren Sapp! Because he was vicious, sweet, powerful and just mean!
Strauss : If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Mosley : It would be Osama Bin Laden, I don’t think I need to say why.
Strauss : What was your favorite NFL team growing up?
Mosley : Dan Marino and the Miami Dolphins.
Strauss : When did you see your first live NFL game? Who played?
Mosley : That’s a tough one, but probably a Dolphins game.
Strauss : What is your favorite song to listen to before a game?
Mosley : I’m glad you asked me, I have several! If it was one or two songs only it would be Pastor Troy’s monumental Master P diss entitled “We Ready”. And DMX “Stop Being Greedy”
Strauss : What is your favorite movie of all time?
Mosley : Awwwwww man…so many. Martin Lawrence “Life” or “Roscoe Jenkins” as far as comedy. Other than that is “Running Scared” and “Boondock Saints”
Strauss : What is your favorite snack food?
Mosley : Popcorn… All flavors. The airport in Chicago has a store that sells the best popcorn I’ve had.
Strauss : What is your favorite type of pie?
Mosley : Pecan Pie or Cheesecake.
Strauss : What is your favorite Ice cream flavor?
Mosley : Butter Pecan or Cookies and Cream
Strauss : What is your favorite TV-Show?
Mosley : My favorite TV show is Dexter, which Brady Quinn put me on.
Strauss : What is your favorite meal?
Mosley : Anything my wife cooks.
Strauss : What is your favorite video game?
Mosley : My favorite video game was Halo, I used to wreck on that before they started cheating. Now it would have to be the God of War series.
Strauss : What superhero do you think would win ANY fight against any other Superhero?
Mosley : Favorite superhero. They don’t make tough superheroes any more man. Superman has kryptonite, The Hulk gets weak for any pretty girl, Ironman and alcohol don’t mix well at all. Can’t pick God, huh?
Strauss : What is the one thing you can’t leave your house without?
Mosley : My iPhone as it is my iPod also.
Strauss : Is there anything you want to tell your fans that I have not asked?
Mosley : Yes, I play for you. Every day after a hard practice where we are feeling sorry for ourselves, Coach Mangini has us meet a group of kids that can’t even walk, or can’t even talk right. And in some cases their last wish before a terminal disease or illness takes effect is to just attend a practice and meet the team. So when I’m on the field or before a game that’s who I think about. The people who really has it rough, or something to complain about, or the guys playing Arena Ball wishing and working to be where I am.
Strauss : Thank you for your time and should I wear 69 at my school, like you did last year?
Mosley : No prob homeboy. PS…get #99. Broke my leg in 69, and a terrible year, not sure you want those problems!!!!! Lololol!
75 : NFL Pro Interview : Chris Ogbonnaya
Chris Ogbonnaya played college football at Texas. He was an Academic All-American during his senior year (2008). He entered the 2009 NFL Draft, and was drafted in the 7th round by the St. Louis Rams. He then signed with the Texans’ practice squad in 2010. He was promoted and signed to the Browns active roster in 2011. He earned his first start this past year. Read more 
47 : HOF Pro Interview : Thurman Thomas
Follow @ThurmanThomas Follow @ProInterviews
Strauss : Why do you use twitter?
Thomas : Just to communicate with friends and fans.
Strauss : If you could meet anyone in the world who would it be?
Thomas : Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star? Why?
Thomas : Walter Payton and Earl Campbell.
Strauss : What is your favorite TV Show? Why?
Thomas : Sanford and Son.
Strauss : What is your favorite movie of all time?
Thomas : Full Metal Jacket.
Strauss : What is your favorite type of pie?
Thomas : Angel pie, that’s what we call our second daughter.
Strauss : What would your last meal on earth be?
Thomas : Lobster, salad, green beans, diet coke, and a hot fudge sundae.
Strauss : How long have you played football?
Thomas : Didn’t start playing until 8th grade.
Strauss : Did you have a favorite sport besides football?
Thomas : Baseball was my favorite.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory from Oklahoma State?
Thomas : Keeping Barry Sanders on the bench 4 two yrs.
Strauss : What was the best thing you learned at Oklahoma State helping you the most in the NFL?
Thomas : Running between the tackles, it made me tougher.
Strauss : What was your draft day experience like? When were you expecting to get drafted?
Thomas : Excited, but teams told me I would go in first round.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory with the Bills?
Thomas : 51-3 in the AFC Championship Game.
Strauss : What is the most vivid memory from any Super Bowl?
Thomas : Two teams- Red, White, and Blue… The Desert Storm.
Strauss : Who was your best buddy from the Bills? What was the best memory you had of that player?
Thomas : Biscuit, just his speed and quickness.
Strauss : What is it like being a Hall of Fame RB? What is it like to look back on your career and see that you amassed over 12,000 rushing yards??
Thomas : Never cared about stats. I didn’t actually know how many yards, I retired with…
Strauss : Who had the most impact on your career? How?
Thomas : Elijah Pitts (RB Coach in Buffalo) told stories about Lombardi.
Strauss : If you could look back on one play, and you had to tell people that never had a chance to see you play, that “this play” of thurman thomas would define your career, what would that play be?
Thomas : I don’t think one play defines a career.
Strauss : What do you want your career to be remembered for?
Thomas : Not being selfish, being a team guy.
Strauss : What is your nickname? Why?
Thomas : Squatty, I don’t really know why.
Strauss : What is your favorite charity? Why?
Thomas : I don’t have a favorite one. All charities are great.
Strauss : What is an experience that changed your life?
Thomas : Having my first kid. Responsibility came at a young age.(twenty-three).
Strauss : If you could describe yourself as any ice cream flavor, what would you be and why?
Thomas : Vanilla, no clue why.
Strauss : What is your favorite quote? Why?
Thomas : “Let Go and Let God.”
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, what is the best advice you can give them?
Thomas : Work hard, but always have a second plan.
Strauss : Thank you for your time Thurman.
Thomas : Thank you Max.
35 : NFL Pro Interview : Brian Robison
Follow @Brian_Robison Follow @ProInterviews
Strauss : So, Brian, why do you make it important to connect to the fans?
Robison : I just feel it’s the right thing do do, without them I wouldn’t be able to have this job.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star? Why?
Robison : Emmitt Smith, What’s not to like and he was/is a class act.
Strauss : And, if you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Robison : Too many people to name just one…. God definitely though, maybe we could discuss what he has in store for me.
Strauss : What was your favorite NFL team growing up?
Robison : Dallas Cowboys.
Strauss : When did you see your first live NFL game?
Robison : The first one I played in.
Strauss : What is your favorite song to listen to before a game? What pumps you up?
Robison : Depends, right now I like drop the world with Lil’ Wayne and Eminem, but it depends on the mood I’m in at the time. I don’t have a set one every time and I listen to everything, so it may not even be the same genre.
Strauss : What is your favorite movie of all time?
Robison : 300.
Strauss : What is your favorite snack food?
Robison : On my diet…. fruit. Off the diet…. there isn’t any snacking.
Strauss : What is your favorite type of pie?
Robison : Any type of lemon.
Strauss : What is your favorite ice cream flavor?
Robison : Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla or Mint Chocolate Chip. Really any type of Blue Bell Ice Cream…. It’s a Southern thang!
Strauss : What is your favorite TV-Show?
Robison : Chuck.
Strauss : What is your favorite meal?
Robison : Hot dogs.
Strauss : What is your favorite video game?
Robison : Call of Duty.
Strauss : Who is your favorite superhero?
Robison : Never really got into it, but I guess Batman.
Strauss : What is the one thing you can’t leave your house without?
Robison : My iPod and iPhone. Mainly my iPhone…
Strauss : How long have you played football?
Robison : I’ve played since I was four years old.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Robison : I played baseball, basketball, track, powerlifting, and football my freshman and sophomore years. I just did football, basketball, and track during my junior and senior year.
Strauss : What is a favorite memory with a sport other than football?
Robison : Setting the University of Texas school record in the shot put as well as placing 4th at the U.S. Championships that year and being ranked number eleven in the world all in the same year. (2006)
Strauss : At what age, did you realize that you were going to play football in college and in the NFL?
Robison : My sophomore year of high school and during my junior year of college.
Strauss : If you weren’t in the NFL, what would you want to do?
Robison : Throw shot put and discus or become a high school coach.
Strauss : What impact did your high school coach have on your pro career?
Robison : A huge impact, he is like a second father to me.
Strauss : Describe the hardest changes between high school and college football
Robison : The speed and overall talent.
Strauss : Who was the hardest player get by in college? Why?
Robison : Jamaal Brown, during my first year at defensive end, he was very athletic and strong.
Strauss : How did the number process work out at Texas?
Robison : I wanted number 40, but it was taken so I went with 39 and stuck with it.
Strauss : How had your game improved throughout college?
Robison : I learned to let go. Mentally, I saw more and handled more. In addition, I played with instincts.
Strauss : What did you learn from playing football at Texas?
Robison : You have to work hard if you want to be the best, and talent can only take you so far.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory from Texas?
Robison : Winning the National championship, the big comeback against Oklahoma State during my sophomore year. All the personal Big-12 championships I had in track (team and personal) and the field goals I blocked in college.
Strauss : What was the combine like?
Robison : Long, boring, and tiring.
Strauss : What was your draft day experience like?
Robison : 2nd or 3rd round. I was pissed when I didn’t get taken, but it all worked out for the best and it was emotional, because when I finally got drafted my dreams came true and the hard work paid off.
Strauss : What was going through your mind when you finally got drafted?
Robison : Isn’t it really cold there?? And, I don’t remember talking to the Vikings much.
Strauss : What number are you in the NFL? Why?
Robison : 96. It was the last ninety number left.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory as a Viking?
Robison : My first game against Atlanta, I accumulated two sacks.
Strauss : What can you expect from playing in the NFL?
Robison : Wanting to be one of the best and be respected.
Strauss : What do you look for when you watch film? How important has film been to your development?
Robison : I look for anything that gives the play away and what a players weaknesses are. Film is probably the single most important thing to my development.
Strauss : What have you learned from your teammates?
Robison : I’ve learned a lot from the older guys on the D-line and they have helped me develop into a much better overall player and how to understand the ins and outs of the game.
Strauss : What is your nickname?
Robison : Everybody calls me B-Rob, nothing special. I’ve also been called a beast and freak for my athletic ability.
Strauss : Who do you compare your game to? Why?
Robison : I have been compared to others like Aaron Schobel, but I really feel like I am a combination of a lot of guys.
Strauss : What has been the hardest thing for you to do since you started playing football?
Robison : Trying to not overwork myself.
Strauss : What is your favorite charity? Why?
Robison : Right now, I represent The National Alliance for Thrombosis and Thrombophilia (NATT) because I had a blood clot during my second season here and it can be a horrible thing if you don’t stay on top of it. It’s really alarming how many people have this problem and die from it every year. Check out http://www.stoptheclot.org. I also hope to do more in the future.
Strauss : What is an experience that changed your life?
Robison : I just mentioned it above, definitely changed the way I eat and the outlook I have on life.
Strauss : What is your favorite quote?
Robison : Jeremiah 29:11, II chronicles 15:7.
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in college and in the NFL, do you have any advice for them?
Robison : Work hard. Work harder. Work hardest.
Strauss : Is there anything you want to tell your fans that I have not asked?
Robison : I love my fans and they are the best and I hope to keep giving them things to cheer about for years to come.
Strauss : Thank you for your time.
32 : NFL Pro Interview : Ernest Smith
Follow @ErnestSmith3 Follow @ProInterviews
Strauss : Why do you make it important to connect to the fans?
Smith : I think when other athletes, college or high school, see a guy from either their neighborhood or ones they played against, it motivates and gives them a stronger drive to work hard and help them achieve their goals.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star? Why?
Smith : Jerry Rice…that’s self-explainable right???
Strauss : If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Smith : I love Will Smith, he’s my favorite actor… I love the fact that he’s a great dad and balances that with acting, and he can connect with his fans really well.
Strauss : What was your favorite NFL team growing up?
Smith : I hate to admit this, but the Dallas Cowboys…Emmitt Smith baby!! lol.
Strauss : When did you see your first live NFL game?
Smith : I saw my first game when I was sixteen, it was the Saints vs. Vikings…Vikings beat the Saints, and the game was in NO.
Strauss : If you weren’t trying to make it in the NFL, what would you want to do?
Smith : When I was growing up, I really did not have a clue. But in the future, I would most likely start a custom car shop… I love cars.
Strauss : What is your favorite song to listen to before a game?
Smith : I listen to Sade, Cherish The Day… I like to be real calm and focused rather than be too pumped.
Strauss : What is your favorite movie of all time?
Smith : Bad Boys II.
Strauss : What is your favorite snack food?
Smith : Reeses.
Strauss : What is your favorite type of pie?
Smith : Apple pie.
Strauss : What is your favorite Ice cream flavor?
Smith : Pecan Prailines n’ Cream.
Strauss : What is your favorite TV-Show?
Smith : Nip/Tuck.
Strauss : What is your favorite meal?
Smith : “Spicy” shrimp pasta, with BBQ chicken.
Strauss : What is your favorite video game?
Smith : Call of Duty, PS3.
Strauss : Who is your favorite superhero?
Smith : Batman.
Strauss : What is the one thing you can’t leave your house without?
Smith : Cell Phone.
Strauss : So, how long have you played football?
Smith : I’ve played football since I was 8 years old.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Smith : Played Basketball and did Track. In basketball, I was a standout… as well as track, I won the 400m during my junior year.
Strauss : When did you realize that you were going to play pro football?
Smith : When I was seventeen.
Strauss : What impact did your high school coach have on your career?
Smith : It prepared me for the competition and how to never be afraid… Never back down from a challenge and Never let someone tell you that you are not ready!!
Strauss : Describe the hardest change between the jump from high school to college.
Smith : The speed of the game was faster… Guys in college were more experienced mentally and physically.
Strauss : How did the number process work out at Baylor?
Smith : It was out of three or one… One is for guys who really think they’re too cocky, so I chose three.
Strauss : What did you learn from playing football at Baylor?
Smith : That everything happens for a reason, but keep God first and things will work out… Never give in and never let negativity set you back!
Strauss : What is your favorite memory from Baylor?
Smith : Ok, this is tough because I don’t know which one I want to choose… The best was graduating a semester early… Second to that, was the Oklahoma University game my senior year…I had a lot to prove and if you watched the game you will see what happened with the so-called best team in the nation.
Strauss : How had your game improved throughout college?
Smith : I became faster and smarter… It helps a lot when it’s a live game..
Strauss : Who was the hardest player get by in college? Why?
Smith : I don’t want to pick anyone out honestly…
Strauss : What impact did your college coach have on your career?
Smith : I had four different coaches, each one had their own significance…
Strauss : What was your draft day experience like?
Smith : I was expected to go on the last day, anywhere between 4th round to 7th round… It was really crazy..started off real slow, then I began to hear from teams, but still wasn’t drafted, but seconds after the draft ended, the Chargers wanted to make a deal… I was relieved.
Strauss : What happened when you finally signed with the Chargers?
Smith : I did it… but it isn’t over.
Strauss : What number are you in the NFL?
Smith : It was six, but hopefully I’ll get 13 and I did… They issued that number to me.
Strauss : What do you look for when you watch film? How important has film been to your development?
Smith : I look for the opponents’ schemes. Film is pretty important but I actually like playing rather than watching film… Makes it even more interesting and difficult…
Strauss : What do you expect from playing in the NFL?
Smith : I expect to be great and be the guy who being talked about in a conversation like I once used to talk about Jerry Rice to all my friends.
Strauss : Could you have predicted how far football was going to carry you?
Smith : No, each day to me is a surprise.. just blessed everyday.
Strauss : Who do you compare your game to? Why?
Smith : No one honestly… My playing style is really rare. You will see…
Strauss : What has been the hardest thing for you to do since you started playing football?
Smith : I love challenges, so I don’t see things as being real hard.
Strauss : Do you have a favorite charity? Why?
Smith : I haven’t started to engage in them yet, but please believe me I will!
Strauss : What is an experience you have had that changed your life?
Smith : Hurricane Katrina really took a toll..for the better actually… It opened up a larger window for me to be seen and recruited..
Strauss : What is your favorite quote?
Smith : “In Life, it isn’t where you start, but where you finish defines the man you truly are”- Ernest Smith
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, do you have any advice for them?
Smith : Always separate (You) from the crowd, show the initiative and out-work all…Guarantee you won’t be over-looked.
Strauss : Thank you for your time.
Smith : Follow me @ErnestSmith3 on twitter… I will send some funny tweets, inspiring tweets, and relationship advice tweets… and anytime on the interview…I love my fans and I pray I can be your favorite receiver one day!
07 : NFL Pro Interview : Fabian Washington
Follow @FabeWash31 Follow @ProInterviews
Strauss : Why do you make it important to connect to the fans?
Washington : I tweet a lot so the fans can get to know the real me.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star?
Washington : I grew up the biggest Deion Sanders fan.
Strauss : If you could meet anyone, who would it be?
Washington : Martin Luther King Jr. – Need I say more.
Strauss : What is your favorite movie of all time?
Washington : Definitely Scarface.
Strauss : What is your favorite snack food?
Washington : French Fries
MS : What is your favorite TV-Show?
Washington : CSI – Miami
MS : What is your favorite meal?
Washington : Steak and Lobster
MS : What is your favorite video game?
Washington : Tiger Woods ’10
Strauss : What was your favorite NFL team growing up?
Washington : I grew up a BIG Buccaneers fan. It was tough, because they were losing but I stayed loyal.
Strauss : How long have you played football?
Washington : I’ve played football since I was nine [years old].
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Washington : I also played basketball and I ran track. In track, I won district a championship, regional championship, and third in the state championship (All in the 100m).
Strauss : At what age, did you realize that you were going to play football in college and in the NFL?
Washington : Around my Junior Year in high school, I realized I was pretty good.
Strauss : If you weren’t playing in the NFL (or after retirement), what would you want to do?
Washington : Honestly, it was football or nothing. I put everything I had into playing football and it has worked out pretty good thus far.
Strauss : When did you see your first live NFL game? Who played? Who won?
Washington : My Junior year in college, I went to see Atlanta Falcons vs. St. Louis Rams in the playoffs. The falcons won by a lot.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory from Nebraska?
Washington : I will always remember my first play as a freshman. I got a pick six vs. Arizona State University. It was a great way to start my college career.
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, do you have any advice for them?
Washington : Just do your best and the rest will work its self out.
Strauss : Thank you for your time.
Washington : Anytime buddy, thank you.
Max Strauss
