134 : NFL Pro Interview : Rishaw Johnson
Rishaw Johnson was a teammate of NY Giants DB, Chad Jones in high school after being forced to move because of Hurricane Katrina. He then went on to play at Ole Miss University. Due to what he calls ‘some big-time mistakes’, he was kicked off the football team in 2010. He then transferred to a DII powerhouse, CalU Pennsylvania. He started all twelve games this past season at Offensive Guard for CalU. He earned DII All-American also. He was invited to the NFL Scouting Combine. He entered the 2012 NFL Draft, but went undrafted. He signed a UDFA contract with the Seattle Seahawks.
130 : NFL Pro Interview : Alex Hoffman-Ellis
Alex Hoffman-Ellis attended Hamilton High School, and he didn’t start playing football until his senior year. From there, he went to play at Moorpark College, and in eleven starts, he totaled ninety-one tackles and two sacks. He then transferred to Washington State University. He started since his sophomore year, and played in 35 games with 33 starts, and 253 tackles, four interceptions (returning two of them for touchdowns, seven pass breakups. He is entered for the 2012 NFL Draft. Click Read More to check out the interview with the young and fiery linebacker, Alex Hoffman-Ellis.
117 : NFL Pro Interview : John Nalbone
John Nalbone played college football at Monmouth University in New Jersey. While he was there, he totaled 101 receptions, 1080 yards, and 9 touchdowns. He was an all-NEC selection during his sophomore, junior, and senior year. He entered the 2009 NFL Draft, and was drafted in the 5th round, 161st overall by the Miami Dolphins. He has been a member of the Vikings, Broncos, Eagles, Bengals, and is now with the Seahawks. He signed a futures contract at the end of the 2011 season.
116 : NFL Pro Interview : Cord Parks
Cord Parks played college football at Northeastern University. He totaled 171 tackles and 12 pass deflections throughout his collegiate carer. He also participated and ran track at Northeastern too. He entered the 2009 NFL Draft, but went undrafted. He signed with the St. Louis Rams. He has been a member of the Seattle Seahawks and Minnesota Vikings also. In the end of 2011, he signed with the New Orléans Saints.
109 : NFL Pro Interview : Jason Babin
Jason Babin was a member of the Tennessee Titans in 2010, and earned his first Pro Bowl appearance after a 12.5 sack season. In the 2011 offseason, he signed a 5-year, $28 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. This season he had a career high 18 sacks and earned another Pro Bowl birth. Click ‘Read More’ to check out the interview! Read more 
96 : NFL Pro Interview : Nate Ness
Nate Ness played college football at Arizona during 2007 and 2008 after playing JuCo at El Camino College where he recorded 19 interceptions and 8 touchdowns. He totaled 97 tackles and 7 interceptions while at Arizona. He entered the 2009 NFL Draft, but went undrafted. He has been a member of numerous teams. Read more
89 : HOF Pro Interview : Warren Moon
Warren Moon was the Rose Bowl MVP in 1978. He played football in the CFL for the Edmonton Eskimos. He won five straight Grey Cup Championships. He then entered the NFL, signing with the Houston Oilers. He also played for the Vikings, Seahawks, and Chiefs in his career. He retired passing for over 49,000 yards and about 290 touchdowns. He is 4th all time in Passing Yards, and 6th all time in Passing TDs. He was inducted into both the Canadian Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Read more
78 : NFL Pro Interview : Gibran Hamdan
Gibran Hamdan played college football at Indiana University. He entered the 2003 NFL Draft and was drafted in the 7th round. He played in NFL Europe and also was a backup for many NFL teams such as the Redskins, Seahawks, 49ers, Bills. He ended his career with the CFL. He started his own clothing line called, ‘Alial Fital’ and he talks about it in the interview.
76 : NFL Pro Interview : Nate Burleson
Nate Burleson played college football at Nevada. He entered the 2003 NFL Draft and was drafted in the third round by the Minnesota Vikings from 2003-2005. He also played for the Seahawks from 2006-2009 for his career. He is currently a member of the Detroit Lions. In 2010, he totaled 55 receptions, 625 yards, and 6 touchdowns.
56 : NFL Pro Interview : Leon Washington
If you want to download the audio interview with Leon Washington, right-click this link.
Follow Leon Washington on twitter at http://twitter.com/Leon_Washington
Follow Leon’s wife, Charity Washington on twitter at http://twitter.com/CharityLuvs
Announcement : Hello, my name is Max Strauss with http://prointerviews.org/, http://facebook.com/ProInterviews/, and http://twitter.com/ProInterviews/, and http://youtube.com/user/ProInterviews/. Please join all those, and become a part of ProInterviews. I’d like to welcome you to the interview with Leon Washington. Leon was a star at Florida State University for four years. He was drafted in the 4th round, by the New York Jets in the 2006 NFL Draft. He played with the New York Jets for the first four years of his career. He made the All-Pro and Pro Bowl team in 2008. However, he was traded during the 2010 NFL Draft to the Seattle Seahawks and has become their return specialist and situational running back. Before we get started with the interview, let’s listen to both audio clips from the game against the Chargers earlier the season. Then, we’ll get started with the interview! I Hope you enjoy the collages also!
Leon Washington Audio Clip 01 : Nate Kaeding kicking it off to Leon Washington–the return man for Seattle. And, Leon Washington’s got a lane. Leon Washington turning on the speed! Washington, he’s gone, touchdown Seahawks! 101 Yards!
Leon Washington Audio Clip 02 : And Washington will return this one from the one. Washington slowed down as he crosses the 20. And, stays on his feet, Leon Washington’s off to the races once again. Does he have the closing speed? Leon Washington is gone. Touchdown! 99 Yards! His second of the day!
Strauss : So, have you ever thought about joining twitter?
Washington : No. My wife has one. I never really thought about it. I have a Facebook page and I got on Facebook when it first came out when I was in college. So, it’s like, I know of it, and a bunch of players on it. I kind of like FaceBook… I might get on twitter one day, but I’ve never really thought about it. I might get on twitter but I don’t see players making posts once or twice a day, but it takes time, and I would probably only post once or twice a day.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star?
Washington : I wanted to be like Marshall Faulk. I adored the 28. In little league football, I wore 28. I always wanted to be like Marshall Faulk.
Strauss : How long have you played football?
Washington : Organized football I started when I was ten years old. Since then, so eighteen years now.
Strauss : So, did you play any other sports in high school?
Washington : I played baseball also. I was a really good center fielder. I knew for sure I could have played in college. But, I could make the majors if I knew that if I could get enough coaching in college on how to hit the ball. But, I was a really good player defensively, in the outfield. I was a really good baserunner, I just couldn’t the ball well.
Strauss : Do you have a favorite memory from any high school sport?
Washington : I would say baseball. My high school team was really bad. In my junior year, we went like 5 and 21 during the regular season. In Florida, everyone had a chance to go to a district tournament. and we ended up number 14 in the state, and winning the district championship. So, we were really bad. It was a huge upset to win the district championship! So, that was my favorite sports moment in high school.
Strauss : So, what was the transition like from high school to FSU?
Washington : For me, I think, that on the football field, playing football was a little different because the players were bigger and faster and stronger. College-wise, you had many responsibilities. You had to go to class, and you had to get up. It was a big challenge for me to be on my own and not having my mom and dad with me. So, that was the biggest challenge.
Strauss : Did you have a best friend at FSU?
Washington : Marc Simon. He was also my roommate, and the little league football quarterback. We were playing together since ten years old.
Strauss : Do you have a favorite memory from FSU?
Washington : A bunch of them. I would say my freshman year. I had a great game against University of Florida. I think I had two touchdowns, and 120 something, yards rushing. I think that would be my favorite moment. I would also say the whole college football atmosphere in Tallahassee at Florida State. I think we have the best college atmosphere of any football team in college.
Strauss : So, what about off the field, do you have a favorite memory?
Washington : I would say, Bobby Bowden’s Friday Speeches, and then we would play on Saturday. Bobby Bowden’s speeches are what got me through college, friday before the game.
Strauss : So, now going into professional, what was the most important thing you learned at FSU that helped you the most in the NFL?
Washington : I think, becoming a better competitor. I think at FSU, some of the guys that generally were going to go to the National Football League. And, The competition helped me though.
Strauss : What is it hard to choose FSU? Did you have any other options?
Washington : Yeah, it was hard. I grew up a Gator fan. And, when I was coming out, Steve Spurrier was leaving. I wasn’t a big fan of their new coach, and then, I had fallen in love with Florida State.
Strauss : What was your whole draft day experience like?
Washington : I knew I was going to get drafted in the third or fourth round. So, I got drafted on the second day. I was with my family and friends, we had a lot of people chilling at the house. We didn’t do much. We just put the draft on pretty much.
Strauss : What were your emotions like?
Washington : First of all, I was like, ‘Wow, man! I grew up in Florida, I have a chance to go to New York. I was very excited about that.’ At the time, I get a chance to pick up some things from Curtis Martin, and it was really great. Really, really great actually.
Strauss : Now, you get drafted by the Jets, what was your first training camp like?
Washington : It was tough. The NFL is different… a lot of responsibility. It was tough to get in because the days get really long. And, we would have to focus in everyday. I had a tough time adjusting to that part of it. But after what I had gone through, it was tough. The mental aspect of the game was tough.
Strauss : What’s your favorite memory in the Jets?
Washington : It had to be that Miami game in 2006. We’re trying to get to the playoffs and I took a screen down there and got us down in field goal range. That is probably my best memory.
Strauss : What was the transition like from the Jets to the Seahawks?
Washington : It really wasn’t that bad. It definitely changed my life, having to pick up everything and move thousands of miles away. But, it was easier then I thought it would because the fans helped make me a feel at home. They really wanted me. In that respect, it was better than I thought it would be.
Strauss : So, what’s your favorite kickoff return ever, and can you take me through the play.
Washington : Oh Man, favorite kick off return ever… I would probably say my first one with the Seahawks because there were so many great blocks on the play. When I caught the ball, I followed my lane, I see the hole, and Michael Robinson, the fullback, made a great block, and made sure to finish him off at the end. I did a great job of just going up and hitting the hole really fast. I made the kicker miss, and I just remember scoring the touchdown. That feeling… it was the loudest I ever have heard in a football stadium. I got to say that was my most favorite moment, I’ve had a bunch of kickoff returns, but that was a little different.
Strauss : Do you have a favorite punt return ever?
Washington : Yeah, I had one in Pittsburgh, I think in 2007. I ran one back to set up a field goal, in overtime. We ended up winning the game. So, that would be it.
Strauss : You pride yourself on Special Teams, and have made a name for yourself through Special Teams, what’s your view on Special Teams? And, what have you brought to the Seahawks that they did not have before?
Washington : Well, first of all, I pride myself on being a football player. Speaking of pride, I have pride in putting good film on tape. I don’t want anyone looking at me and going, ‘Hey, he’s a sucker. He’s not trying hard.” I got a lot of pride in what I do. I want to be the best in what I do. And, secondly, if you’re a player, if you give Special Teams a chance, it could impact as the offensive and defensive plays. As much as a touchdown or an interception, you have a chance to change the game immediately. You also have a chance to regain momentum mentally. So, of all the plays, we can catch everyone’s attention by making a big play.
Strauss : Who’s had the most impact on your career?
Washington : That’s a tough question, I’ve had so much help. I can’t pick out one person. So, honestly, I would say my faith in God. That right there is the truth, because often, I had a lot of tough times in my career. I kept my faith and trust in him, and it made me better.
Strauss : What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time not related to football?
Washington : Well, I have two little boys. So, I play with my boys when they get home. That’s what I do.
Strauss : So, do you have a nickname?
Washington : Some of the guys on Seattle call me, Jet Lee. I don’t know. I think when I return I had the Jets turned on, I was so fast, so they kept calling me Jet Lee.
Strauss : Have you ever thought about starting a foundation or charity?
Washington : I have, but I am little young. Even though I don’t have a foundation, I spend most of my time helping other foundations. Every year, I do a football camp. I host it in Connecticut every year.
Strauss : What’s an experience that changed your life?
Washington : I would say me breaking my leg, was a pretty bad experience. Not only was I called for not playing football, I was called that I would have to learn how to walk again, and that helped me appreciate the really small things in life.
Strauss : So, if you could describe yourself as any ice cream flavor, what would you be and why?
Washington : Ice cream flavor… It would probably be caramel!
Strauss : What is your favorite quote?
Washington : I think Barry Sanders said, “To be what you’re not, you must do the things that others don’t want to do.”
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, do you have any advice for them?
Washington : To play in the National Football League, I would tell them that the best advice would be.. that quote. That’s what I just said. You definitely have to work hard. The NFL is not about the most talented person, I’m telling you. It’s for the guy that works the hardest.
Strauss : Thank you so much for your time Leon!
Washington : No problem dude, I want you to continue what you’re doing. Hit me up when you put it online!
Announcement : Thank you for listening to the interview with Leon Washington. I hope you enjoyed it. I hope you leave your comments below! Please continue to check out my website http://prointerviews.org/, “LIKE” the Facebook page at http://facebook.com/ProInterviews/, and follow me on twitter at http://twitter.com/ProInterviews/. Please subscribe and add me on YouTube at http://youtube.com/ProInterviews/ Thanks again for listening! Stay tuned for more interviews.
-> Here are the personal questions he answered. <-
Strauss : If you could meet anyone, who would it be and why?
Washington : Hmmm. I would probably say Martin Luther King. I would probably ask him what the secret is to becoming a great leader.
Strauss : If you weren’t playing in the NFL, what would you want to do?
Washington : If I wasn’t playing in the National Football League, I would probably be a biologist. I love everything about nature and everything about biology. I’m a big National Geographic / Discovery Channel fan. I love learning and study about the foundation of life. Something like that.
Strauss : What is your favorite TV Show?
Washington : Discovery Channel is probably my number one show. Basically the different informational channels, Discovery, National Geographic, and Planet Earth.
Strauss : What is your favorite movie?
Washington : Oh… Hm, I would probably say Shawshank Redemption. I like that long, settled down type of movie.
Strauss : What is your favorite type of pie?
Washington : Not pie, but cake, I love carrot cake.
Strauss : What would your last meal on earth be?
Washington : It would be… my wife’s Honey Baked Mustard Chicken. With a bottle of water or something.
52 : NFL Pro Interview : Phillip Daniels
If you want to download the interview, right-click this link.
Follow Phillip Daniels on twitter at http://twitter.com/@BigPhil_93
LIKE Phillip Daniels on FaceBook at http://www.facebook.com/phillipdaniels93
Announcement : Hello, my name is Max Strauss with http://prointerviews.org/, http://facebook.com/ProInterviews/, and http://twitter.com/ProInterviews/. I’d like to welcome you to the interview with Phillip Daniels. Phillip Daniels was a star at the University of Georgia, and became the 99th overall pick by the Seattle Seahawks in the 1996 NFL Draft. He played for the Seahawks for four seasons, (1996 to 1999) and accumulated 22 sacks and forced five fumbles. He then, signed with the Chicago Bears and in four seasons, he had 23 sacks and forced 4 fumbles. In 2004, he signed with the Washington Redskins and has remained with them since. So far, he has collected 16.5 sacks and 1 interception, and also forced 6 fumbles with them. He has over 500 tackles in his career, almost 50 pass deflections, 12 fumble recoveries, and 15 forced fumbles. Anyways, Let’s get started with the interview. But just like last time, here are some audio clips from his more recent career first!
Phillip Daniels Audio Clip 01 : Well, this is like a P.A.T. for Brown, right down the middle, 21 yards away… It’s BLOCKED! It’s blocked by one of the Redskins. Phillip Daniels gets a hand on it!
Phillip Daniels Audio Clip 02 : Rodgers in the shotgun, right off the bat. Has Jackson goes right, takes a step, looks right, looking over the middle, he’s going to get hit, sacked. Redskins crunch him. Second sack of the game. Redskins’ Phillip Daniels first man there. So, “Big Phil” get the sack!
Strauss : You’re one of the older players using twitter, why do you use twitter?
Daniels : Just to talk to the fans, and to have fun with my teammates. Stuff like that. It’s also a good site to keep track of what’s going on in the league. You got all these analysts and everybody out there, going through their routine, so it’s good to keep up, so I know what’s going on.
Strauss : Do you connect with your fans any other ways?
Daniels : Well, other than going to the fan sites to talk to them, they ask me questions. I ask them questions. I did that before the season started, and I’ll probably go on again.
Strauss : So, how long have you played football?
Daniels : I started in sixth grade. Let’s count that up man, it’s been a long time. Add fifteen to eleven [26 years]. I guess it’s just a lot of wear and tear right there.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Daniels : Yeah, I played basketball. And, I played baseball from sixth grade until my senior year in high school.
Strauss : Did you have a favorite memory playing basketball?
Daniels : Basketball, I guess, going to the final four, two years in a row. My parents and my brother and my cousins, pretty much all my relatives. It must have been the fondest memory I have of basketball. That would probably be my best memory.
Strauss : Do you have a favorite memory from playing football at Georgia?
Daniels : I don’t think I do. I’m trying to think of one. I remember when Lee intercepted the ball, the first play of the game, and ran it back for a touchdown. I think it was the quickest score in Georgia history. I don’t know if it still stands, but it was at the time.
Strauss : Did you learn anything at Georgia that helped you the most in the NFL?
Daniels : No, just about the game. In high school, you learn a little bit of plays and in college, you learn a lot. I think when you get to college, you finally realize that there’s another side to the game too. You have to… use a schedule, get homework done everyday, go to practice everyday. I think it just teaches you discipline by coming to work everyday.
Strauss : More into the NFL, what was your whole draft day experience like?
Daniels : It was crazy man! I thought I was going to get drafted on the first day. That first day, everything was just a might go second, might go third. In the third, Miami ended up calling me, they were moving down. Atlanta called in the third round, they said they were going to take me. They ended up taking Shannon Brown, so they didn’t take me the first day. So, the first day was gone. Then, the second day came, and I think that was a long day for me because we had a party and everybody was in the house got drafted the first day. And, then my agent said that you’re going to get drafted early tomorrow, and my name came up on ESPN as the best bet. So, I was happy with that, and, the next day, he said that all on my clients on the East Coast called and then, Seattle called. They were fourteenth in the fourth round. But they called, I take the opportunity, and in the first preseason game, we played Atlanta, and I got two sacks. It worked out in my favor.
Strauss : Besides the preseason game, do you have another favorite memory with Seattle?
Daniels : No, I really don’t have one. Probably just making the playoffs. We did a bunch of stuff. We needed to beat Oakland to get in, and it didn’t matter how. It was up to a field goal. I was waiting for the field goal, and they missed the field goal, and we made the playoffs. Other than that, in Seattle, it was playing against the Jets. Quarterback didn’t cross the goal line, and they gave him a touchdown, and they showed the replay. And, that one started calling for the replays in that game. I remember that. So, there are things I remember.
Strauss : What was it like to go from the Seahawks to the Bears?
Daniels : For me because I was on Seattle for four years, kinda sad they didn’t keep me around. Coach Holmgren felt after the last season I had there, he said he wanted to build this defense around me, and then Chicago came and they gave me a good offer. Seattle did not want to match it, so I think I was more sad then anything that I was leaving behind guys like Michael Sinclair and friends. But at the same time, I knew that I had to move on, and make the most of the opportunity.
Strauss : Do you have a favorite memory from playing with the Bears?
Daniels : Yeah, our thirteen and three season. A lot of memories from that season. Mark Brown intercepted the ball in back-to-back weekends to win in overtime. I’ve been through a lot. We had to win during home-field game to get to the playoffs to play at Seattle. It was a lot of memories that year, and a whole lot happened that year. That was the same year as 9/11, so a lot was happening that year.
Strauss : What was the transition like form the Bears to the Redskins?
Daniels : That transition was pretty easy because Greg Blache in Chicago with me, he was the defensive coordinator of Chicago and then, he came here and the defense was similar. So, it was an easy transition for me to come from the Bears to here. So, was Coach Maxwell, he was a great coach. He was here, and I was one of the first free agents that he wanted. It was actually okay, and the transition was not bad at all.
Strauss : So, people always say that, making the league is never as hard as staying in the league. How have you stayed in the league so long?
Daniels : I think because of the way I work in the offseason. I don’t take a whole lot of time off. I just take about two weeks off. Then, I start working out, getting back in shape. It’s the offseason, and throughout the offseason, I stay in great shape. I think this helps me stay in the league a lot longer. Most players take about three months off, and then start lifting to get ready for the next season. I’m already three months ahead of them. It’s doing the right things also. Working hard through all the days and eating right has kept me around.
Strauss : Who has had the most impact on your career?
Daniels : Probably my wife. She’s the only one who has basically been to all the games. So, I would say my wife.
Strauss : Do you have a nickname?
Daniels : Some people call me, “Big Phil”. And then, I got a couple guys who call me “Field Goal.” I find that funny, but whatever. Big Phil is the one that works better.
Strauss : Why’d they call you that?
Daniels : It’s because I’m big, man. I got these muscles right here. I got big guns, so they call me, “Big Phil”,
Strauss : And, what about “Field Goal?”
Daniels : I don’t know where that came from. That came from like some guy in Seattle. They used to call me that in Seattle every now and then, because of my name, and putting something together.
Strauss : So, what’s it like to have your son commit to playing football at Notre Dame?
Daniels : It’s great man! I just went to one of his games this weekend, watched him play. He had a great game. It’s great to get the opportunity to go somewhere that’s a good school, continue his education, and play football. You can’t beat that. He went through a lot, but he’s dedicated. He didn’t sit around, he worked, and tried to make a name for himself, and I’m glad Notre Dame is giving him an opportunity to show them what he has.
Strauss : Off the field, you’ve been a finalist for numerous awards, do you have a charity?
Daniels : I don’t. But, I’m involved in everyone else’s.
Strauss : So, what’s your favorite charity?
Daniels : Well, I Woman’s Cancer Foundation. That’s a good one. I remember a lot of events with them. Though, I can’t remember a lot of the charities I worked with today. But back in Chicago, it was like every week, I was doing some charity work. Fans had their own charity, there are a lot of the charities today that I’ve done stuff though. A lot of the charities, if you can help, you do.
Strauss : If you could describe yourself as any ice cream flavor, what would you be and why?
Daniels : So, it would be a combination of Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry. Haha. I bring a lot to the team.
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, what’s the best advice you can give them?
Daniels : Just work hard! Go to college. This is the advice I give to kids all the time, “Don’t grow up thinking you’re going to be some kind of athlete or star, don’t go about it doing it like that. Go to school, get your education, and let the rest lead the way. Just go to school, get your education,
Strauss : So, is there anything you want to tell Redskins fans that we have not talked about?
Daniels : No, you know, I love the Redskins fans, I talk to them all the time on twitter. I’m going to holla them really soon. Redskins fans, they are the best. They are the best around. I never had an opportunity to have so much support from the fans. The fans here, they love you. It’s pretty good. Redskins team.
Strauss : Thank you so much for your time.
Daniels : No problem, man.
Strauss : Good luck for the rest of the season.
Daniels : Alright man. I appreciate it.
Announcement : Thank you for listening to the interview with Phillip Daniels. I hope you enjoyed it. Please continue to check out my website http://prointerviews.org/, “LIKE” the Facebook page at http://facebook.com/ProInterviews/, and follow me on twitter at http://twitter.com/ProInterviews/. Thanks again for listening, stay tuned for more interviews.
->Here are the personal questions Phillip Daniels answered.<-
Strauss : If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Daniels : I guess Bill Gates. He’s got a lot of money, so I just want to see how he lives everyday life.
Strauss : If you weren’t playing in the NFL, what would you want to do?
Daniels : I don’t know, I would have probably been a professional wrestler. I used to watch wrestling when I grew up with my dad. I used to watch wrestling almost every Saturday. I loved it until I found it was fake. Haha. There’s a lot of acting in that. I guess I’d be a good actor.
Strauss : Who’s your favorite wrestler?
Daniels : I really don’t have a favorite. I kinda just looked at the whole picture. I really don’t have a favorite.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star?
Daniels : I probably followed Michael Jordan when I was younger. But, if I were to stick with football, I’d say Bo Jackson.
Strauss : What is your favorite TV Show?
Daniels : My favorite TV show would be Martin. He’s a comedian, and he’s really funny on the show, so that’s what I would say.
Strauss : What is your favorite movie of all time?
Daniels : I really like “Coming to America.”
Strauss : What is your favorite type of pie?
Daniels : Sweet Potato Pie. My mom used to make it every holiday.
Strauss : What would be your last meal on earth?
Daniels : Fried Chicken or Sushi. Either one would be good.
48 : NFL Pro Interview : Leonard Weaver
If you want to download the audio interview with Leonard Weaver, right-click this link.
Follow @LeonardWeaver Follow @ProInterviews
Announcement : Hello, my name is Max Strauss with http://ProInterviews.org, I would like to welcome you to the interview with Leonard Weaver. Leonard Weaver played at Carson Newman from 2001 to 2004. He went undrafted in the 2005 NFL Draft. But, he signed with the Seattle Seahawks and played with them from 2005 to 2008. After that, he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, and in 2009, he was AP All-Pro and a Pro Bowl selection. Well, let’s welcome him!
Strauss : So, why do you really use twitter? And, do you connect to your fans any other ways?
Weaver : Yeah, I’m pretty personable. I love interacting with my fans on a personal level. I do twitter because I do want to interact with my fans. You know, I mean there are not just fans here in Philly, fans across the country, and what better way to connect to them and allow them to be able to connect back to you. To them, a conversation on twitter would not be cost-expensive, it’s not costly. And, it’s a good way for fans to connect with other athletes, and all teams, and a good way to interact with each other.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Weaver : Yeah, I did, I participated in baseball. I also ran track. I also did basketball.
Strauss : Do you have a favorite memory from any one of those sports?
Weaver : Yes. Football, definitely against our rivalry school to get us into the playoffs, that was in 2000, I believe. Baseball, I almost pitched my first no-hitter ever. That was a great memory. The discus, winning the discus for my high school at District championship, so that was pretty sweet.
Strauss : What about basketball?
Weaver : I would have to say, hitting the game winning shot. And, to have the crowd come out of the stands. Good gracious, I was pretty smooth.
Strauss : The transition form high school to college, what was that really like?
Weaver : It was good, but it was… You know, the responsibility I think that the responsibility aspect was really the hardest part.
Strauss : What’s your favorite memory from Carson Newman?
Weaver : Oh man, I would have to say, it’d have to be a football memory. My first time, actually being on a winning team, and going to the playoffs. That was in 2002. I lead the team in receptions. It was something different. It was something!
Strauss : So, what’s the most important thing you learned at Carson Newman that has helped you the most in the NFL?
Weaver : I would have to say, from a football standpoint, just hard work can never get replaced. Hard work always brings about success. Cutting corners does not necessarily help you at all, it actually hurts you in the long run. I would have to say from a student standpoint. Responsibility, Character, how to carry yourself throughout your lifetime, when you’re there. And, looking and teaching how to grow up and mature to be a young man. So, it was really a very integral part of my life.
Strauss : Did you have a best friend at Carson Newman on the football team?
Weaver : I really didn’t have any best friends that were on the football team, I had a lot of good friends. But, my best friends were football players. They were: one was a track star. His name was Jonathan Gage. And, the other one was Lonnie Davis.
Strauss : Did you do anything funny with them in college?
Weaver : Yeah man! I remember one night we had a dance off in my apartment. I mean, we were killing it! He threw the bus man. We invited a couple other friends over, and we had a dance off! And, you know, who do you think won that one? No doubt.
Strauss : What was your draft day experience like?
Weaver : Well, It wasn’t really a draft experience, I wasn’t drafted. I didn’t get that opportunity. But, I mean in terms of just even thought of having an opportunity of get to the NFL was all I wanted. I just wanted a chance, an opportunity to get through the doors, and god opened the door for me, and allowed me to walk through. And, I have not turned back since, so, I thank god for that.
Strauss : Were you contacted by any teams like during the draft, saying if you’re available after, we’d like to pick you up?
Weaver : Yeah, I was contacted by San Diego Chargers as well as the Seattle Seahawks, but I kinda knew after the first three rounds, you don’t really want to be chosen to go to a place. You kind of want to have your own choice. And, that’s what I enjoyed about being a free agent that I got to chose and pick and see who’s on the depth chart, who I’m competing against, see how many guys are at my position, and give myself the best opportunity possible.
Strauss : Speaking of being undrafted and everything, what was your first training camp with the Seattle Seahawks really like?
Weaver : Uh, it was definitely, I wanted to go home. It was really tough, mentally. I would have to say that the mental part that you have to endure as an NFL player, the pressure of everyday, surviving. The grit of the coaches selling at you, and the pressure of making the team, competing and not making mistakes, it was very difficult, but I liked a lot of it. I liked our offense, it taught a lot of things about me as a person.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory with the Seahawks?
Weaver : I would have to say going to the Super Bowl. I’ve come to find that being a part of that team with Shaun Alexander, Mack Strong. Being around Coach Holmgren. I would have to say that opportunity to actually to go to Detroit, and actually be a part of the Super Bowl was probably one of the most recognizing moments of my life.
Strauss : What was it like to be on the Seahawks and then, have another opportunity to take your career elsewhere, and why did you take it to Philadelphia?
Weaver : Well, I had a great career in Seattle. It was really a very helpful direction for me to actually go there and be a part of that. But, the reason why I picked Philly is because Coach Holmgren and Coach Andy Reid have of course, a brotherhood going on. In the sense of, kick from you to kick me from the other Mike. They run the same exact offense pretty much. So, it was likely for me to come in and be effective. I needed to go there and be smart, so I could contribute right away, and not have to worry about the playbook as much. And, it’s just the right place for me.
Strauss : Last year, you were phenomenal with the Eagles. You were All-Pro and Pro Bowl. What was that like to be nominated for that?
Weaver : Oh, that was unbelievable, man, it’s just really that, words can’t really speak of. I can’t pick one to describe how I felt. Last year, was an unbelievable year all-around. It was a blessing. A blessed year. You know, we were award-winning. I just truly am a blessed man. It was an unspeakable year. I couldn’t even speak words on it. It was just phenomenal. It was a great blessing, and I would like to thank god for the opportunity to allow the coaches to trust in me in my position. It was really cool.
Strauss : What was the pro bowl like when you attended that?
Weaver : It was good man. It was down in Miami, Florida. So, a lot of my family, I think about fifty members came. That was a great experience for me and them. It was unbelievable to be around a lot of the players that you see play, growing up. You watch them while you’re in college, and now you’re competing against them, among the best of the best. I think it was phenomenal. I enjoyed myself very much.
Strauss : After that, you signed with the Eagles again, and you became the highest paid fullback in NFL history, what was that like?
Weaver : That was unbelievable man, I couldn’t believe anything else. You work in this business to achieve the maximum pay that you can have at your position and as a player. And to be rewarded with the contract like that, was brought to the organization to how they felt about me. And, I thank god they inclined. I felt that to be able to say to my kids’ one day, your dad was or is the highest paid fullback to ever play the game. I think that says a lot, and it’s a great blessing to me.
Strauss : Do you have a favorite memory with the Eagles so far?
Weaver : You know what yeah, I do. I want to say my first touchdown as an Eagle.
Strauss : What play was that again?
Weaver : It was a pass from Donovan. A good time to get in the end zone. I took it up the sideline about twenty yards to score. And, the fans really received me and it was almost one of those things where the fans were like, “Whew! Man he can move better than we thought!” So, it was actually a blessing, and really exciting!
Strauss : Like, looking back on your career as a whole, who was the person that had the most impact on your career?
Weaver : Stump Mitchell, he was running backs coach for the Washington Redskins last year with Jim Zorn. He’s a head coach now, down in, where I can’t remember the name of [Southern University]. Stump Mitchell had the greatest impact on my career. In fact, he is why I am the player I am today due to everything he taught me, and it was awesome.
Strauss : So, do you have a nickname?
Weaver : Yes, I do they call me, “Bishop”. Because of the ministry god has put me. I basically go around, preaching to people, “The Gospel”. And, I really tell them my testimony on how I get through life. How life has been impacted. I know in only Jesus Christ. So, people call me that.
Strauss : What is a memory that changed your life for better or worse?
Weaver : I would have to say, this injury that I’m going through right now. I would have to say that it has been life-changing, life-altering, ever since. It’s making me appreciate the fact that I have lived in arms and lengths at work, and I should be pretty thankful for them.
Strauss : If you could describe yourself as any ice cream flavor, what would you be and why?
Weaver : Haha, Oooh, I don’t know about that one. Wow, I would have to say… I don’t know man. I mean, just chocolate because I don’t know. I don’t know, I never even thought about it like that. Probably have to say peanut butter, because it goes with anything. Apples, celery, it doesn’t matter what it is, peanut butter goes with anything.
Strauss : So, what’s the Leonard Weaver Foundation?
Weaver : The Leonard Weaver Foundation is a foundation that is for kids who are venturing, young youths, found in the urban communities, but engaged across the country, to better themselves as youth, and give them better opportunities to succeed in life. We, also, are a foundation that loves being the advocates of promoting awareness to diabetes, and how serious this disease has become. That’s generally what the Leonard Weaver Family Foundation is about.
Strauss : What was the best memory from a charity event?
Weaver : Um, I would probably have to say, when we did, Playing with the Pros. Players came out and we had a league. The fans got a chance to compete against their favorite players in any video game that could possibly think of. And, I think that was real cool, and very fun to see the fans come out and laugh and see the players come out and have some good times.
Strauss : Did you beat anyone in video games?
Weaver : No, I actually don’t participate. I am more of the one to walk around, make sure everybody’s alright, kinda semantics. Just making sure everybody was good and comfortable.
Strauss : So, what’s your favorite quote?
Weaver : My favorite quote is one that I quote, “Hard work, dedication, and sacrifice equal success.” And, I truly believe that.
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, what’s the best advice you can give them?
Weaver : Wow, the best advice I would give them is to understand that… To reach your goal, you have to definitely work hard. But, I think more so than that, to get to the NFL, you have to understand there is a select group of people that play this game. And, in order for you to come in and get a position, you have to stay focused and determined. You can’t allow the numbers or the games that this league gives to you, stop you, or get you off track, or tells you what do in life. So, basically, don’t allow the NFL for your own to get tarnished or damaged because things don’t work out right away.
Strauss : Is there anything you want to tell your fans that I have not asked?
Weaver : No, not really. I think the Eagles’ Nation knows what I’m about. They know who I am. I don’t know, I can’t say much because I love ‘em to death.
Strauss : Thank you so much Leonard.
Weaver : Alright, well you have a great day man, and finish up strong.
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->Here are the answers to the personal questions he answered.<-
Strauss : If you could meet anyone, who would it be and why?
Weaver : I would have to say Jerry Rice, he was an idol of mine while I was growing up. I actually try to model part of my game, even though I play fullback not receiver, but after Jerry Rice. I would have to say Jerry, I haven’t had a chance to meet him yet.
Strauss : If you weren’t playing in the NFL, what would you want to do?
Weaver : I would definitely want to be a high school football coach and a teacher. I would teach math.
Strauss : What is your favorite TV Show? Why?
Weaver : Right now, Grey’s Anatomy.
Strauss : What is your favorite movie of all time? Why?
Weaver : I would have to say, “Why did I get married too?”
Strauss : What is your favorite type of pie?
Weaver : Sweet potato pie.
Strauss : What would be your last meal on earth?
Weaver : Lasagna and green beans, with a cup of Apple juice.
Strauss : Thank you for answering the personal questions.
Weaver : Thank you.
Max Strauss
