First, what have you been up to over the offseason and have the coaches asked you to work on anything in preparation for training camp?
I’m just working on getting stronger and my mobility. Getting ready for training camp and to compete for a spot.
The coaches liked my versatility and told me they really didn’t get a chance to see what I could do since I was signed so late in the season. They told me this was an opportunity to prove to them what I can do. I just need to work on getting stronger and more mobile so I can compete for a job. That’s the best way to get their attention.
Why did you sign with the Steelers?
I came in for a workout and they signed me to a practice squad spot afterwards. I thought it would be a great place for me as a rookie. They told me they wanted to develop me and learn the system in case I was needed.
Anyone help you out – on and off the field – when you got to Pittsburgh?
Terry Cousin – he helped me with the off-field stuff – he even helped me purchase a car. Coaches Klemm and Sarrett – they helped me with the playbook so I could compete in practice.
Any of the players help out?
The whole offensive line – they all had different knowledge to help me. Mostly it was about learning the playbook since I came in late.
DeMarcus Christmas – he came in a couple of weeks after I did and he was good competition in practice. He and I stayed late together after practice to practice – we learned a lot together.
JC Hasssenauer with the playbook too – he taught me a lot of the things he picked up over his time in Pittsburgh. He was a big help too.
I read where you used Twitter to help you hone your skills as a lineman. How did you do that?
I studied how to improve as a lineman a lot in college and thought, I’m always on social media. Why not use it to my benefit. I followed coaches and strength trainers – that helped me to work on my mobility and strength training work. It was just a little part of my routine but it helped me.
You have a lot of versatility to offer as a lineman – how does that help you?
I started for two years at right tackle as a freshman and sophomore in college, then moved to left tackle as a junior and senior. Since I’ve been here, they have been developing me as a guard. I can play offensive tackle and guard – that helps my chances for sure. I understand both positions.
Do you look at the Steelers roster and free agency and think about how the upcoming changes to the offensive line will affect your chances to make the roster?
Yeah, I do see that. That gives me even more reason to do the right things in the offseason so I cam come in ready t compete for a spot.
Any idea on what Matt Canada may bring to the offense and how it works with your skillset?
I’m not really sure how the offense will change, to be honest – I’m not sure about that enough to really say.
What should we know about you that isn’t about football?
I’m a simple guy. I like to read and play video games and I like to learn about a lot of different things. I see people who do different things and I always like to ask about what they do and why they chose their career.
Lastly, everyone has a good story on their time with the team. I know you’ve been there a short time but anything stand out to you so far?
Just seeing the guys in the locker room – playing games like cornhole. It’s a funny experience to watch that.
Who’s the best on the team?
Oh everyone says they are the champ = I don’t want to say anyone’s name! I’ll leave that one up in the air!
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