48 : NFL Pro Interview : Leonard Weaver
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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.
Announcement : Thank you so much for listening to the interview with Leonard Weaver on http://prointerviews.org, make sure check out the Facebook page, at http://facebook.com/ProInterviews, and follow me on twitter for more updates when future interviews will come out on http://twitter.com/ProInterviews. Thanks again for listening. I hope you enjoyed this one.
->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.
40 : NFL Pro Interview : Demetrius Byrd
If you need to download the audio interview with Demetrius Byrd, right-click this link.
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Announcement : Hello, my name is Max Strauss, and with me today for an interview, is Demetrius Byrd, former seventh round pick by the San Diego Chargers, and 2-year star LSU wide receiver. At LSU, he had 72 receptions for 1,134 yards, and eleven touchdowns. Make sure you stop by my website, www.prointerviews.org and stay tuned for more interviews. Thanks again for listening, I hope you enjoy this one.
Strauss : How long have you played football?
Byrd : My first time playing football was, I want to say fifteen. That was my first time to be able to play a contact sport. I played flag football, my first time I played for Scott Lake. My second team was Miami Lakes. It was pretty exciting and a pretty good experience. My next trip was to play high school ball. I didn’t get to play ninth, tenth, and eleventh grade because I didn’t have good grades, so that’s why I didn’t play. But I did manage to get my grades right going into my twelfth grade year, so that’s how I became eligible to play football my senior year.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Byrd : Yeah, I did play another sport when I was in high school. I ran track. That was my first love. Track is my love. Football is my love. But, if there’s harm in me playing football, then I’ll do my other love, and that’s running track. That’s how I feel.
Strauss : Did you have a favorite memory from running track?
Byrd : I have a great memory from running track. During my junior year when I ran track, it was during a 4×100, and it was the first meet of the year. I went out there, and we won it in a 41.6. That was smoking! Then, I ran the 200, and I ran it in 21.9 seconds. We won that. They found out on the 4×100 I ran a 9.8 during the second leg. We also won, like the third total in the state, with the 200 also. Those are some good memories right there.
Strauss : Did you have a favorite football team growing up?
Byrd : Yeah, my favorite football team and still, my favorite team is the Dolphins. I’m from Miami. I love the Dolphins.
Strauss : Do you go to Dolphins’ games?
Byrd : Um, no I don’t. I went to one. But to answer your question of when was my first professional game, that was when I was with the Chargers and it was when they played the San Francisco 49ers in preseason. I went to that game. And, it was actually my first time big time one. Being on the sidelines, that was my big time game there. But as far as going to Dolphins’ games, I went to a Dolphin game back when I was in high school, back in 2005, they played the New England Patriots.
Strauss : So, what are you doing right now, since you are not in the NFL?
Byrd : Right now, I’m just doing therapy and I’m doing a little work-ins. It’s just to keep a little money in my pockets. I do work and, I do therapy like Monday through Thursday. So, I’m always on therapy.
Strauss : Why do you have a twitter and why do you connect to your fans?
Byrd : As a matter of fact, I’m glad you asked me that. I want to tell all my fans and everybody who loves LSU, not only just me. Like, far as, fans, that just love LSU to follow me. If you have a twitter, you can go ahead and follow me. I’m one who will talk back to you. I’m probably one of the only athletes that will follow you back, and will talk back to you. My message to all my tweeters, I have a twitter so I can connect with my fans, and show my fans the real me, and I’m not out here trying to be fake. I’m going to give you me, 100 percent.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star?
Byrd : Hands down, Jerry Rice because I loved the way he played and he’s a hard working man. Jerry Rice because he was one of those guys that always is being loved. He played Division 1, AA. And, he was the greatest to ever live, to ever do, and it’s him.
Strauss : If you could meet anyone, who you have not met before, who would it be and why?
Byrd : Wow, man, I would to love meet Trey Songz. Because I love his music. He is, hands down, one of the best R&B/Blues out, so I’d love to meet Trey Songz and just talk to him, pick his brain, have a conversation with him.
Strauss : Why did you decide to wear number two at LSU?
Byrd : Okay, the reason I decided to wear number 2 at LSU is because it was the closest number to number one. Number one, it is my favorite number because that’s the number I wore in Junior College and wore in high school too. The reason I didn’t wear it at LSU is because 1 was already taken, but number 2 was empty and number 3 was open, so I didn’t want to take number 3, so I take 2, and it turned out to be one of my favorite numbers.
Strauss : What was the hardest transition between high school and college?
Byrd : The hardest thing is basically, really the adjustment, because you have to learn this game. You have to get whipped in shape. That’s what I would say were the hardest things to adjust to.
Strauss : In college, how did your game improve?
Byrd : If you were to get my highlight of catches my junior year, it would show you how I used to run my slants. I didn’t put a stick in front of my slants, but if you were to watch me, my senior year, my cuts were crisper than before.
Strauss : When you were at LSU, what was the important thing you learned off the field that helped you on the field?
Byrd : The most important thing is basically is going to class, and resting, man, because you got to rest your body. In order to perform, you got to rest. And in order to get the chance to perform, you have to go to class.
Strauss : Who was the hardest person to get by in college? Why?
Byrd : It had to be my teammates, I’m going to say that. Trust me. Nobody out there that wasn’t on my team could not stop me because they don’t know what I was going to do. Even my teammates didn’t know what I was going to do, but I practiced with them everyday, so they knew what kind of moves I brought. They don’t know, but they have an idea. The person I’m going against, they don’t know anything.
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Strauss : So, what was your whole draft day experience like? When were you expecting to get drafted?
Byrd : Well, to remind you, I was in a coma when I got drafted so I don’t know none of that. Yeah, I was supposed to get drafted in the second round somewhere like that. I could have slipped to the first round, you never know. But I had a great combine, but unfortunately I was in the hospital, out of my mind, I was in a coma so I didn’t even know I had gotten drafted. I woke up out of the coma I told my mom, ‘What am I doing here? I got to get ready for the draft.’ She told me, ‘You already got drafted.’ And, I was like ‘Woh!’
Strauss : When you signed with the Chargers, what was that experience like?
Byrd : That’s just like anybody, just signing a contract, signing with a team. I was like, ‘$***’ I didn’t mean to curse, sorry excuse my language, but that’s just how I felt. You know, real happy, really blessed, like most people don’t even get drafted, like the Texas Tech quarterback. The good thing was that I got drafted, he didn’t even get drafted. But instead, I got drafted in a coma, so I felt real blessed to get to sign a contract.
Strauss : What was your favorite experience at LSU, the best thing that happened at LSU?
Byrd : The best thing that happened was when I caught that catch against Auburn. I hope the fans will never forget that. My kids’ kids will remember that day. I just, just will never forget that. It’s also one of those moments right there, that catch. I love that. I love that memory.
Strauss : So, I read somewhere that you were known as the best dancer on the LSU football team?
Byrd : Yeah, you can write that down, I did what I did, there was a section on ESPN, where I did the Michael Jackson dance before we played Auburn in 2008 at their field.
Strauss : Who was your best buddy on the Tigers?
Byrd : Just all of them just all of them were my boys.
Strauss : What’s a good experience of yours that didn’t have to do with football?
Byrd : A good experience was when my family came to see me in the hospital. That’s one that just answered my prayers.
Strauss : Do you have a nickname?
Byrd : Yeah, they called ‘Byrdman’ or ‘DByrd’ or anything like that. I don’t know if you can see it on your phone, but most people tweet me, when I tweet them back, I send that little ‘Byrdman’ sign back, that is the sign that LSU students made that sign up for me when I score a touchdown, so I started doing that. And, it’s cool too.
Strauss : What’s the best thing that ever happened to you?
Byrd : Hmm, shoot, the best thing that has happened to me was waking up this morning.
Strauss : What’s an experience that you’ve had that changed your life for better or worse?
Byrd : The experience of the accident, it made me open up my eyes, and really show me. So, you know what I’m saying. So, with him, everything is possible.
Strauss : For someone who wants to play football in the NFL, what’s the best advice you can give?
Byrd : The best advice I could give, and this comes from Demetrius Byrd, is never give up. No matter what someone tells you. Never give up! Work, work, work, work hard, never give up! That’s all I could tell you. And, I have a quote. I don’t know if it’s somebody else’s quote, but just work, work, work. Never give up. Because also, the strong shall only survive and the weak fall by the wayside. Meaning, if you’re strong enough, you’re going to make it, to whatever you want to do. You could be whatever you want to be. But, if you’re weak, you might as well, give up, you won’t make it anywhere.
Strauss : Is there anything you want to tell your fans that we have not discussed?
Byrd : Yeah, I’d like to tell my fans, just to stay tuned in with me. Keep praying for me. If you’re praying for me, just keep prayer open for me. And, also, if you’re a fan of me, or a fan of LSU, you can become a fan on Facebook. I have a fan page, and I have highlight videos of me on there. You can become a fan. And also, you can follow me on twitter. I will follow back and I will talk to you if you talk to me. That’s all I want to say. Thanks for all of you to tuning into this. Thanks for taking time out to invite me.
Strauss : Thanks for doing the interview, I really appreciate it!
Byrd : No problem man, my pleasure man.
Announcement: Thank you for listening to the interview with Demetrius Byrd. In addition to the audio interview, there are personal questions he answered below. Do you have anything in common with him personally, scroll down below, you can read his answers.
–>Here are the personal questions that Demetrius answered.<–
Strauss : What’s your favorite snack food?
Byrd : I love sweet potato pie without anything in it.
Strauss : What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?
Byrd : It’s Strawberry, and Butter Pecan, and no, not together.
Strauss : What would you want your last meal on Earth to be?
Byrd : It would be a southern meal. Collard greens, sweet potatoes, cornbread, fried chicken, and mac n’ cheese.
Strauss : What’s your favorite video game?
Byrd : As of right now, anything EA Sports, I’m down with Madden, NCAA, NBA Live. I like NBA 2k. I love competitive sport games, and not really a shooting gamer. I love March Madness and all that.
Strauss : What is your favorite TV Show?
Byrd : I got more than one. I love Martin, Fresh Prince [of Bel-Air], and I love the show, The Game.
Strauss : What’s your favorite movie of all time?
Byrd : I don’t really have a favorite movie of all-time. I could watch action movies, or scary movies. I love all scary movies though.
Strauss : Who is your favorite superhero? Why?
Byrd : Flash, because I ran just like that in high school and that’s what people ended up calling me. My parents liked that.
Strauss : If you were to describe as an ice cream flavor, what would you be and why?
Byrd : That’s an interesting question right there. I never thought about it, I guess. Let’s see… I would say Rocky Road because that’s the kind of road I am on right now, like the road was smooth at first, and now I’m at the rocky part of the road. Or, I could say, Strawberry, I’m not sweet, but I’m nice, I’m nice at doing my job on the field.
Strauss : Thank you so much for answering questions.
Byrd : Thanks again for asking me. Follow me on twitter.
33 : NFL Pro Interview : Freddie Brown
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Strauss : So Freddie, why do you make it important to connect to the fans?
Brown : We all need support, and that includes the fans! If it weren’t for our fans, the NFL would not be what is today. Both on and off the field, I represent a multitude of entities including the National Football League, my team/organization, my college, high school, hometown, my family and my faith. People look up to professional athletes, and I’m doing what I can to be a good role model and a positive influence to society.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star? Why?
Brown : My dad. He played in the NBA and since I was a kid, I wanted to follow in his footsteps to one day make it in the world of professional sports.
Strauss : And, if you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Brown : Jesus Christ! He died for this world so that we could have life.
Strauss : What was your favorite NFL team growing up?
Brown : The San Francisco 49ers. My cousin, Ray Brown, played in the NFL for 20 seasons and was with the 49ers for 6 years. He gave me and my family tickets to their games. This is back when they had Steve Young, Jerry Rice, Terrell Owens, JJ Stokes, Ken Norton Jr. and many more talented players, so we really enjoyed watching them play.
Strauss : When did you see your first live NFL game? Who played? Who won?
Brown : I was about 9 or 10. At the time my cousin was with the Washington Redskins and they played the Rams (back when they were the Los Angeles Rams). Unfortunately, the Rams won.
Strauss : If you weren’t playing in the NFL (or after retirement), what would you want to do?
Brown : My initial back up plan was to become a successful businessman, but I’ve always been interested in people with various needs. Someday, I’d like to help build schools, hospitals and churches around the world. I just want to help people in any way that I can.
Strauss : What is your favorite song to listen to before a game? What pumps you up?
Brown : Where Would I Be, by Smokie Norful. I love Gospel music!
Strauss : What is your favorite movie of all time?
Brown : It’s a two-way tie between Shawshank Redemption and Pursuit of Happiness.
Strauss : What is your favorite snack food?
Brown : Fruit smoothies! I’m not one to speak highly of myself, but some of my teammates call me the smoothie king. I disagree with them.
Strauss : What is your favorite kind of pie?
Brown : Apple pie! With vanilla ice cream, of course.
Strauss : What is your favorite Ice Cream flavor?
Brown : Three way tie: Cookies n’ Cream, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Strawberry.
Strauss : What is your favorite TV-Show?
Brown : I don’t watch much TV, but it’s another three-way tie: Scrubs, In the Heat of the Night and Matlock.
Strauss : What is your favorite meal?
Brown : Korean food! I love Korean BBQ Ribs (Galbi), BBQ Beef (Bulgogi), Rice Cake Soup (Ddeok-guk), Spicy Tofu Stew (Soon Tubu), Seasoned Cabbage (Kimchi), Sesame Leaves (Gen Neep) and Steamed White Rice. My grandparents make the best Korean food and it’d be nice to have it more often.
Strauss : What is your favorite video game?
Brown : I’d rather do something constructive like read a book, study my playbook or help someone.
Strauss : Who is your favorite superhero?
Brown : Jesus. No one has anything on Him!
Strauss : What is the one thing you can’t leave your house without?
Brown : I try not to leave without my keys!!! Two other very important things though, are my wallet and phone.
Strauss : So, how long have you played football?
Brown : I’ve been playing football for 13 years. I started playing flag football when I was eleven years old in 6th grade, and I started playing tackle football my freshman year in high school at age fourteen.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Brown : I played basketball for all four years and I played baseball and ran track my freshman year. I decided not to play baseball or run track after that so I could focus more on football and basketball.
Strauss : What is your favorite sport to play other than football?
Brown : Definitely basketball. During the offseason, some of our Bengals players get together and play at our gym in our facilities. It’s one of many ways we can bond as a team and it’s a great way to stay in shape!
Strauss : At what age, did you realize that you were going to play football in college and in the NFL?
Brown : As a kid, I would often talk about playing in the NBA (since my dad played for the Detroit Pistons) but I really became serious about wanting to play football in college and in the NFL when I was about fifteen.
Strauss : What impact did your high school coach have on your football career?
Brown : My college coach Scott Morrison had a great impact on my college and pro career. He taught our high school team philosophies that I still carry with me today. One of them being: Faith, Family and Football. More importantly, he and his family are extraordinary people.
Strauss : Describe the hardest change between the jump from high school to college.
Brown : It was a transition moving to another state and being away from my family most of the year for 4 years. Also, the demands in college are far greater than the demands in high school. I’m grateful to have learned a lot more about discipline and sacrifice.
Strauss : How did you choose a number at Utah?
Brown : 88 was my number in high school and I thought it’d be nice to have the same number in college.
Strauss : What can you expect from playing D-1 football?
Brown : It is the experience of a lifetime! Your college football teammates become your extended family. You go through a lot together and at the end of the day, good or bad, you’re still brothers.
Strauss : Who was the hardest player get by in college? why?
Brown : My former Utah Ute teammate and current Miami Dolphin Cornerback, Sean Smith. How many cornerbacks do you know are 6’3 and 215 pounds? Yeah, I had to try to get by him everyday in practice. Playing against the best only makes you better.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory from Utah?
Brown : Our entire 2008 season! Our team beat Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, we won every game we played with a record of 13-0, and we were the only undefeated team in the nation finishing #2 in the country behind Florida. About 90% of the U.S. thought we were going to lose, and it was great proving them wrong. Also, a couple games before the Sugar Bowl, I caught the game winning touchdown against TCU. I love my Utah teammates; we’re family.
Strauss : Could you have predicted how far football was going to carry you?
Brown : Absolutely not. It is by the grace of God that I am where I am today, and I thank Him everyday for blessing me with this incredible opportunity
Strauss : What impact did your college coach have on your pro career?
Brown : Both my college football head coach Kyle Whittingham and my receiver coach Aaron Roderick had some big impacts on my pro career. They’ve always believed in me, and I’m thankful that they gave me the opportunity to contribute and help our team win games. These two coaches are the main reason I decided to go to the University of Utah. The moment I signed, I knew that it was one of the best decisions I’d ever make in my life. To this day, I feel the same exact way.
Strauss : When were you expecting to get drafted? What was your draft day experience like?
Brown : Although I was told when to expect I’d be drafted, I wasn’t specifically expecting this or that because you really just never know. Receiving a phone call from our head coach Marvin Lewis the day of the draft, right before the Bengals drafted me was pretty neat. My family and I saw my name flash across the TV screen and we were very happy. It was a special moment.
Strauss : Why have you changed numbers in the NFL?
Brown : Being at this level, I just took the number I was given!
Strauss : What do you expect from playing in the NFL?
Brown : Everyday I can become a better football player than I was yesterday. We never know when it’ll be our last day or our last play, so I’m just trying to make the most out of everyday and every play I have at this level.
Strauss : What was it like to be on the Bengals’ practice squad? What is the practice squad really like?
Brown : It was a crucial stage in my own personal development. Everyday I went up against our starting defense and it was very challenging to say the least. Bottom line is, it’s the NFL: the highest level of football in the world, and the competition is fierce.
Strauss : How has your game improved from Utah now to the Bengals’ squad?
Brown : I received excellent coaching at Utah. The NFL however, has the absolute highest form football coaching. Literally everything we do is critiqued and evaluated, and it is essential in any players development. Again, everyday I have at this level is a day that I can become better than I was yesterday and I’m in the process of maximizing my potential.
Strauss : What is the hardest workout to do?
Brown : Everyday is a physical and mental grind, and we are pushed beyond our comfort zones and limits. My teammates go through the same thing with me and that inspires me to work even harder.
Strauss : What’s the hardest workout for you to complete?
Brown : Every workout is challenging in some way, but when we finish it, we gain a greater sense of accomplishment and desire to finish everything we start.
Strauss : How important has film been to your development? What do you look for when you watch film?
Brown : It has been critical! Most of my extra time is spent in the film room.As a receiver, I study myself, the defense, (usually defensive backs and their tendencies) and players who do things very well. I’m pretty tough on myself and there is almost always something to improve upon and correct. I know I’ll never be perfect, but I can strive for it. In doing so, I believe I get better.
Strauss : Who do you compare your game to? Why?
Brown : I don’t really compare myself to anybody because I’ve got my own unique style. I simply do what I can to be the best me I can be.
Strauss : What is your favorite charity? Why?
Brown : There are countless great charities. I give back because there are too many people out there in the world who are broken, hurting, lost, hungry, thirsty or in some other form of desperate and immediate need. We all need to know that we are loved, supported and cared for, and I believe that it is in giving that we truly receive.
Strauss : What is your nickname? Why?
Brown : When I was a kid, people called me Downtown. They still do. I guess Downtown Freddie Brown just has some kind of ring to it.
Strauss : What is something that you look back on that has developed who you are? Why?
Brown : My faith. Everyday it has molded and shaped me into being who I am today, and I’m in the process of becoming who I was created to become.
Strauss : What is an experience you have had that changed your life?
Brown : I’ve had the privilege of opening my eyes to wake up everyday of my life for 24 years. I’m alive and well with a great family, food on the table, a roof over my head and everything that I need. I’m so thankful for everyone and everything I have in my life.
Strauss : What is your favorite quote?
Brown : “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” – 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, do you have any advice for them?
Brown : Dream BIG! Work harder than you’ve ever worked, be more disciplined than you’ve ever been and make the necessary sacrifices that will help you get to where you aspire to go. Hang around good, positive people and be willing to do more than what those next to you do. Extra work will take you far. It’s easy to do what everyone is required to do, but very few are willing to do above and beyond what’s asked of them.
Strauss : Is there anything you want to tell your fans that I have not asked?
Brown : No matter how much we’ve experienced, learned, loved or lived, there is always more to be done!
Strauss : Thank you for your time.
Brown : Thank you! I appreciate the opportunity!
28 : UFL Pro Interview : Samie Parker
Follow @SAMIEPARKER Follow @ProInterviews
Strauss : So, Samie, why do you make it important to connect to the fans?
Parker : I think it’s cool to connect with the fans, because they support what I do and I appreciate it, and sometime they don’t know what’s going on in the inside of the pro world.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star?
Parker : Deion Sanders and Eric Dickerson.
Strauss : What was your favorite NFL team growing up?
Parker : Growing up I never really had a favorite team. I just liked individual players such as Deion Sanders, Eric Dickerson, Jerry Rice, and Michael Irving.
Strauss : What is your favorite snack food?
Parker : Cookies and milk (Chips Ahoy, soft and chewy)
Strauss : What is your favorite TV-Show?
Parker : I enjoy watching Entourage.
Strauss : What is the one thing you can’t leave your house without?
Parker : My wallet.
Strauss : If you weren’t playing football, what would you want to do?
Parker : I think that once I’m done with playing football I am going to get into coaching. I think I have a lot of knowledge to pass onto others.
Strauss : And, how long have you played football?
Parker : I’ve played football since I was seven years old.
Strauss : What is your favorite sport to play other than football?
Parker : I would say my other sport that I enjoy other than football, would be track and field. I competed in track in high school and throughout college and qualified for the Olympic Trials in 2004, but I was dedicated to become a professional football player, so I did not attend. I ended up fulfilling my dreams and getting drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fourth round.
Strauss : When did you realize that you were going to play football in college and in the NFL?
Parker : I have always wanted to play pro football since the first day I started playing, I had no idea about college when I was young. I told my pop-warner coach I was going to play in the NFL when I was seven years old and strived to do so since then. Dream comes true.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Parker : In high school, I played multiple sports freshmen year I played football, basketball, and also ran track.
Strauss : What impact did your high school coach have on your pro career?
Parker : My high school coaches just have coached so many great athletes, I couldn’t lose listening to their advice. So many NFL players came before me.
Strauss : What was your best memory from Oregon?
Parker : I was say my best memory at Oregon was winning the Fiesta Bowl and catching a 79-yard Touchdown pass that really broke the game open.
Strauss : Describe the changes between college and the NFL.
Parker : There was a big jump for me because I worked with NFL people while I was in high school and college so it prepared me for the NFL and the speed of the game.
Strauss : What are words describe your style of gameplay?
Parker : Speed and BIG PLAYS!
Strauss : What was your draft experience like?
Parker : Just sitting around waiting for the phone to ring was just frustrating.
Strauss : What was it like to be drafted 105th overall by the Kansas City Chiefs?
Parker : I was excited to finally get a chance to make it to the BIG stage and have my child hood dreams come true.
Strauss : What was the experience like when you signed with teams, then released within the week?
Parker : Just being in a bad situation, not really getting a chance to compete. I wasn’t effected by it because I knew my skill level. UFL and AFL was a way to showcase my talent and that I still could play.
Strauss : What was it like to be a UFL Champion? Why did you end up joining the Chicago Rush?
Parker : I was great being apart of history becoming the 1st team ever to when a championship in league history. I joined the Rush to have fun and show that I can play in a physical atmosphere.
Strauss : Who is your best friend on any football team?
Parker : Demetrius Williams of the Baltimore Ravens.
Strauss : What is an experience you have had that changed your life?
Parker : I would probably just say to be more vocal to express my play-making ability close mouth, don’t get fed and I never ate the way I should have when I was in the NFL.
Strauss : What is your favorite quote?
Parker : Someone told me, “Do not to be afraid to succeed.”
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, do you have any advice for them?
Parker : I would say to give your all and never let anybody tell you what you can and can not do.
Strauss : Thank you for your time.
Parker : Thank you for taking the time to interview me.
24 : NFL Pro Interview : Lance Leggett
Follow @L9LanceLeggett Follow @ProInterviews
Strauss : Why do you make it a habit to connect to the fans?
Leggett : It’s a chance to build a relationship, and they will see that I love to have fun.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star?
Leggett : Kobe, he would never let anyone out work him.
Strauss : What was your favorite NFL team growing up?
Leggett : I liked the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Strauss : When did you see your first live NFL game?
Leggett : My first game was the Buccaneers and the Lions, and the Lions won.
Strauss : What is your favorite song to listen to before a game?
Leggett : Plies… All Day.
Strauss : What is your favorite movie of all time?
Leggett : Friday.
Strauss : What is your favorite type of pie?
Leggett : Cheesecake, if you want to call that a pie… haha
Strauss : What is your favorite TV-Show?
Leggett : ESPN, BET, and The 1st 48.
Strauss : What is your favorite video game?
Leggett : NBA 2K10.
Strauss : What is the one thing you can’t leave your house without?
Leggett : My cell phone, lol.
Strauss : How long have you played football?
Leggett : I’ve played since I was eight years old.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Leggett : I played basketball and also ran track.
Strauss : What is your favorite sport to play other than football?
Leggett : My favorite sport is track.
Strauss : When did you realize that you were going to play football in the NFL?
Leggett : Well, that was always my dream.
Strauss : If you weren’t playing in the NFL, what would you want to do?
Leggett : I’d like to start my own business and have a website.
Strauss : What impact did your high school coach have on your career?
Leggett : BIG, words can not describe, I can write a book for you, lol.
Strauss : Describe the hardest change between the jump from high school to college.
Leggett : Like any other level, the speed of the game.
Strauss : How was Coach Shannon influential to your growth?
Leggett : I love coach, and he will make you become a man REAL FAST!
Strauss : How had your game improved from your freshman to your senior year of college?
Leggett : I became stronger.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory from Miami?
Leggett : My 1st game we played Florida State University, and I got to play in that game a lot.
Strauss : How did the number process work in the NFL?
Leggett : The number 9 is the number I have worn all my life.
Strauss : What’s the hardest workout for you to complete?
Leggett : Track workouts.
Strauss : Could you have predicted how far football was going to carry you?
Leggett : Yes, only because it was all up to me.
Strauss : What was it like to catch your first touchdown in preseason?
Leggett : I loved it! Everyone back from my home town was watching, so it gave my city something to smile about.
Strauss : What is an experience you have had that changed your life?
Leggett : My kids, and for the better, I will do any and everything for them.
Strauss : What is your favorite quote?
Leggett : “Go hard or stay home.”
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, do you have any advice for them?
Leggett : Just keep your eye on the prize!
Strauss : Thank you for your time.
Leggett : No problem, fans be ready for http://www.minglesports.com my new website.
19 : NFL Pro Interview : Brian Hartline
Follow @BrianHartline Follow @ProInterviews
Strauss : So, Brian, why do you make it extremely important to connect to the fans?
Hartline : I do not make it extremely important, I just enjoy it.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star? Why?
Hartline : The triplets, Michael Irvin, Troy Aikman, and Emmitt Smith. With a little bit of Alvin Harper thrown in there.
Strauss : If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Hartline : Probably one of our founding fathers. Probably Benjamin Franklin. He was and still is so influential with the shaping of the United States. The amount of questions would be limitless. Why is pretty self-explanatory.
Strauss : What is your favorite song to listen to before a game?
Hartline : I don’t need music to get me pumped up before games.
Strauss : What is your favorite movie of all time?
Hartline : The Batman Series
Strauss : What is your favorite snack food?
Hartline : Welch’s fruit snacks
Strauss : What is your favorite TV-Show?
Hartline : Criminal Minds
Strauss : What is your favorite meal?
Hartline : A lobster bisque soup for a starter, Filet on a charbroil grille with lobster mac and cheese, and some truffle fries for sides.
Strauss : What is your favorite video game?
Hartline : Call of Duty, Modern Warfare 2
Strauss : What is the one thing you can’t leave your house without?
Hartline : Cell phone, wallet, keys.
Strauss : Could you have predicted how far football was going to carry you?
Hartline : Absolutely not.
Strauss : What was your favorite NFL team growing up?
Hartline : The Dallas Cowboys.
Strauss : How long have you played football?
Hartline : I have played football my whole life starting in the backyard. But I started playing organized football when I was nine.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Hartline : I did. I played football, ran indoor and outdoor track, and also played a little basketball.
Strauss : What is your favorite sport to play other than football?
Hartline : I would definitely say track but I do not run anymore. I ran the hurdles all through high school. I was a two-time state champion and a two-time all-american. There is just something to be said about it being all about the individual. You win titles on your own. There is no excuses or individual opinions on talent level. Tape measures and stop watches don’t lie.
Strauss : When did you realize that you were going to play football in college and in the NFL?
Hartline : You never realize it until you do it. I didn’t realize I was going to play college football until I played my first game. And I didn’t realize I was going to play for the Dolphins until I got into my first game. There is a big difference between having the opportunity to do something and actually doing something.
Strauss : What did you want to do for your career before this change of thought?
Hartline : I really didn’t know. Football was the goal and my fall back plan was having my degree. Where I would go with the degree I was unsure of.
Strauss : When did you see your first live NFL game?
Hartline : My first game was when I was young, probably around 7 years old. It was down in Dallas but I forget who the Cowboys were playing.
Strauss : What impact did your high school coach have on your football career?
Hartline : Every coach I have had has had an impact on my career.
Strauss : Describe the hardest change between the jump from high school to college.
Hartline : The talent level and the speed of the game.
Strauss : How had your game improved from your freshman to your junior year?
Hartline : In many ways. You grow a lot from eighteen years old to twenty-one years old on and off the field.
Strauss : Who was the hardest player for you to get past in college? why?
Hartline : Mine, own teammate Malcolm Jenkins. We had quite a few battles.
Strauss : What impact did your college coach have on your professional career?
Hartline : He probably had the biggest impact on my football career. Darrell Hazel, my receiver coach at OSU, was one of the best coaches I have ever had the chance to work with.
Strauss : As you’ve grown as a player, how important has film been to your development?
Hartline : Very important. Through college and now the NFL, we spend more time in the class room watching film, then we do on the field.
Strauss : What was your draft day experience like?
Hartline : Very nerve-racking, but a great experience.
Strauss : Describe the hardest change between the jump from college to the NFL.
Hartline : The amount of smart players in the NFL.
Strauss : What was it like to catch your first touchdown?
Hartline : It was exciting, but I wanted to keep the mindset of “plenty of more to come”. I don’t like complacency and more importantly I wanted to win the game.
Strauss : Your younger brother, Mike is at Kentucky, what do you talk to him about?
Hartline : We talk about everything. We probably talk almost every other day. And I do not give him advice on how to play football. Playing quarterback at high level is one of the hardest jobs in all of sports. I have the most respect for him and what he does.
Strauss : What is your favorite quote?
Hartline : I have two: “Winning is not a sometime thing; it’s an all-time thing. You don’t win once in a while, you don’t do things right once in a while, you do them right all the time. Winning is habit. Unfortunately, so is losing.” AND: “Practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect.” ~Vince Lombardi~
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, what’s the best advice you can give?
Hartline : Hate to lose more than you like to win. And there is nothing wrong with being first in everything you do. Don’t ever give someone the opportunity to say that they beat you. And if they do beat you, find out how they did and then do it better than them the next time. But, in the end, you have to hate to lose. If you don’t, you will end up losing to often.
Strauss : Thank you for your time.
Hartline : Thanks for the interview, and thanks to all my friends and fans for all the support they have shown me.
18 : NFL Pro Interview : Jonathan Hannah
Follow @Jon_Hannah88 Follow @ProInterviews
Strauss : Why do you make it extremely important to connect to the fans?
Hannah : Haha, I love twitter it gives me a chance to interact with new people which is always fun.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star?
Hannah : Michael Jordan, like most other kids. He was truly ahead of his time and made everything look so easy.
Strauss : If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Hannah : I would say anyone who went through the civil rights movement by either helping African-Americans or African-Americans who stood up for what they believed in. Those people have my utmost respect.
Strauss : When did you see your first live NFL game? Who played? Who won?
Hannah : I believe it was the Falcons and the Patriots about three or four years ago, and the patriots won.
Strauss : If you weren’t playing in the NFL (or after retirement), what would you want to do?
Hannah : I would be doing something sports oriented. Love sports like most americans so. So, I would say coaching.
Strauss : What is your favorite song to listen to before a game?
Hannah : I’m a southern boy so anything Pastor Troy, Plies, Lil’ Wayne, Young Jeezy or Rick Ross gets me ready to play.
Strauss : What is your favorite movie of all time?
Hannah : Major Payne.
Strauss : What is your favorite snack food?
Hannah : Beef Jerky.
Strauss : What is your favorite type of pie?
Hannah : Key Lime Pie is something I would die for.
Strauss : What is your favorite ice cream flavor?
Hannah : Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough.
Strauss : What is your favorite TV-Show?
Hannah : Martin.
Strauss : What is your favorite meal?
Hannah : Steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, Mac and Cheese and collard greens.
Strauss : What is your favorite video game?
Hannah : NBA 2k series.
Strauss : What is the one thing you can’t leave your house without?
Hannah : My iPhone is my life. lol
Strauss : How long have you played football?
Hannah : I have been playing football since I was six years old.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Hannah : The only other sport I have played is basketball.
Strauss : What is your favorite sport to play other than football?
Hannah : Basketball is my first love and I started playing that at three years old. Basketball, definitely I’ve accomplished a lot in that sport and still love it today with great passion.
Strauss : When did you realize that you were going to play football in college and in the NFL?
Hannah : I would say when I was fifteen or sixteen when I was getting a lot of interest from colleges. I thought I had enough potential to make a career out of it.
Strauss : Who was the hardest player for you to break away from in college?
Hannah : Mark Anderson, when he was at Alabama, now with the Chicago Bears. He possessed quickness and strength I had never seen before.
Strauss : How had your game improved from throughout college?
Hannah : I was a lot stronger, smarter, and faster and my blocking and route running improved tremendously.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory from FSU and Texas Southern?
Hannah : My best memory at FSU was walking into the stadium and seeing all the accolades of all the football greats that have made their mark at FSU. Walking into the locker room and seeing Deion Sanders, Alex Barron, Warrick Dunn, Charlie Ward, Peter Warrick, etc. the Jerseys framed is very moving. My favorite thing about Texas Southern was that it was right in Houston.
Strauss : What was it like to train for the combine?
Hannah : Pretty intense, hardest period of time I’ve ever worked out in my life.
Strauss : Who do you compare your game to?
Hannah : I try to pattern my game after Tony Gonzalez, he is my favorite TE and I believe he’s an all around tight end.
Strauss : What was your draft day experience like?
Hannah : Rollercoaster. Anxiety–out of this world.
Strauss : As you’ve grown as a player, how important has film been to your development?
Hannah : Film is incredibly important without it, it’s hard to evaluate what you’re capable of doing on the field
Strauss : If you don’t land with an NFL team during the offseason, are you open to going to the UFL?
Hannah : I am absolutely. UFL is still professional football with an opportunity to make it to the NFL.
Strauss : What is an experience you have had that changed your life?
Hannah : Losing my grandmother made me realize life is a gift, cherish it. Whether it’s good or not, it’s your life, so love it.
Strauss : What is your favorite quote?
Hannah : “To whom much is given, much is tested” or “There is no such thing as a bad day just some days are better than others”.
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in college and in the NFL, do you have any advice for them?
Hannah : You have to be mentally tough to survive in this game. Never listen to when anyone says you can’t do it, and take the criticism you hear and use it as fuel to drive you to your goal!
Strauss : Thank you for your time.
Hannah : I want to thank you for the opportunity to answer these questions for your readers I hope y’all enjoy take care and God Bless!
08 : NFL Pro Interview : Jesse Holley
Follow @Mr4thAndLong Follow @ProInterviews
Strauss : So, Jesse, why do you make it important to connect to the fans?
Holley : Because without fans, Holleywood would not even exist. No Fans, No Football, No “Let it Fly”.
Strauss : Who was your childhood star?
Holley : My Grandma – She is my star now also.
Strauss : If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be?
Holley : Mike Jackson, because I listen to him before every game and I just marvel at how great he was at his craft!
Strauss : What is your favorite artist to listen to before a game?
Holley : Mike Jackson……..lol
Strauss : What is your favorite movie of all time?
Holley : Coming To America.
Strauss : What is your favorite TV-Show?
Holley : SportCenter or Martin
Strauss : What is your favorite video game?
Holley : Believe it or not, I dont play Video Games AT ALL.
Strauss : What is the one thing you can’t leave your house without?
Holley : My Cell Phone.
Strauss : What was your favorite NFL team growing up?
Holley : I never had a favorite NFL Team growing up.
Strauss : How long have you played football?
Holley : I’ve been playing since thirteen years old.
Strauss : Did you play any other sports in high school?
Holley : Sure did. I played basketball and it was my favorite.
Strauss : What is your favorite experience of playing a sport other than football?
Holley : In basketball, definitely winning the NCAA Championship at UNC.
Strauss : At what age, did you realize that you were going to play football in college and in the NFL?
Holley : I was a sophomore in high school when my coach told me I should to go to college and play football.
Strauss : If you weren’t playing in the NFL (or after retirement), what would you want to do?
Holley : I would love to work for ESPN or be a sport analyst for the NFL or a College sport.
Strauss : When did you see your first live NFL game? Who played? Who won?
Holley : I never saw a NFL game live as a kid growing up. The 1st game I saw live was my rookie year when I was with the Bengals in 2007.
Strauss : What impact did your high school coach have on your college and professional career?
Holley : He allowed me to grow as a leader.
Strauss : What is your favorite memory from UNC?
Holley : That’s easy and does not need a long story. Winning The National Championship
Strauss : What impact did your college coach have on your career?
Holley : He showed me that just because you’re talented. You still have to work harder then everybody else.
Strauss : Why did you choose to wear the #16 in the NFL?
Holley : Nope, I didn’t choose it. That is the number the boss (Jerry Jones) gave me after winning the show [Fourth and Long].
Strauss : What was it like to win Michael Irvin’s Fourth and Long?
Holley : It was an opportunity of a lifetime, and it gave me a 2nd chance at living my dream out!
Strauss : What is an experience you have had that changed your life?
Holley : Having Football taken away from me and realizing that being in this league [NFL] is a privilege and an honor. It is not something to be taken lightly.
Strauss : For someone aspiring to play football in the NFL, what’s the best advice for them?
Holley : Faith and hard work overcomes all odds.
Strauss : Thank you for your time.
Holley : Thank you!
Max Strauss
