The Sponge
The big difference between training camp and OTAs is that everyone is much more serious now. There is a sense of urgency from everybody. Practice is set up the same way OTAs, but now we're going two-a-days, full pads, 1/2 pads, shells, hats and cleats. Yesterday we went out just in hats - like baseball hats. From the first days of OTAs to first day of camp is a huge difference. I am much more confident in what I'm doing and where I'm supposed to be. I am more comfortable in the setting and I know the guys. It's a better feeling. After having that month off after OTAs everyone is re-energized and excited to get going. I'm working with the third team right now. I expected to start at the bottom and work my way up. I expected to get an opportunity to come in here and work and compete and when it's all done see where the cards lay. I am trying to talk to the vets as much as possible... the 10-year, 9-year, even 2nd-year guys to see what they went through as rookies. I want to be a sponge and pay attention to everything and I definitely watch extra film. One of the most interesting things to me is just how knowledgeable the vets are about the game. I have always studied hard and felt like an expert but when you get around these guys you realize how much more you have to study if you really want to be an expert. These guys are 9s and 10s on a scale of 10 and I'm maybe a 2. Guys like Fred Taylor and Mike Peterson and John Henderson - guys I've been watching on TV for the last few years. I ask them a lot of questions and the way they look at things and perceive things have been very enlightening. They have been very helpful.
eagles4ever05 said August 01, 2008
hiphop said August 02, 2008
JeanneAlexis said August 01, 2008