First, can you let me know how you got started with the USFL?
I played in the Spring League – just looking for a shot to get back in the NFL. I thought that would be the best idea at the time. When that was done I heard rumors about the USFL. It seemed like a similar thing as the Spring Leagues – another opportunity to play football.
The NFL isn’t always promised to everybody. This was a chance to play more football and get some revenue and more film on me. So it was a no-brainer.
Were you surprised the Maulers took you?
Honestly, I was in the dark about the process. There wasn’t much said throughout the process but I was manifesting and praying and hoping for the best.
Chris Watts – a scout for the Giants – he scouted me at North Texas and worked me out. He’s on the Maulers’ staff now and showed my film to the defensive coordinator and linebacker coach and I think they saw that and felt it was a no-brainer to take me. I saw that phone number ring on draft day and knew it was them.
Any idea of what role you’ll play there? Right now they have you as the only inside linebacker but you’ve played many roles.
I haven’t gotten any word yet from them. They’re still finalizing schemes and playbooks I think. I think we’ll get more information next week.
At North Texas I played the Mike and Will and even some outside linebacker. I told my coach I was training as a 3-4 linebacker just in case they needed me there. I wanted to be prepared for any opportunity.
Any role you prefer most?
I just want to maximize my athletic ability – to show I can play in space and in the slot and do whatever else they need me to do to produce.
As a North Texas guy – anyone talk to you about the connections to the Steelers and Joe Greene?
No – its so funny, because I heard about it more after I was drafted. When I was in Baltimore Zach Orr was an All-Pro player from North Texas. He talked to me about the NFL and I also had a lot of Pittsburgh fans reaching out to me on social media.
Did anyone help mentor you once you got to the NFL?
Zach was the main reason I went to Baltimore – I talked to him before draft day and he talked to me about going there after the draft. Jeff Wilson is another North Texas guy – he’s been with the 49’ers. And all the North Texas grads – I’ve kept in touch with a lot of them and have a lot of respect for them all.
I definitely got advice about battling through adversity as an undrafted free agent. You go through a lot of trials and tribulations. You just have to be sure to ask questions and watch the guys that have been there and take notes. And make plays. You have to give them a reason to keep you around.
You know any of the guys on the Maulers roster?
Tezino – I know him from the Spring League – we played together. Terrell Bonds was with me in Baltimore -we were in the same rookie class. De’Veon Smith was in the Spring League with me and Matt Seybert – I played against him in the Spring League. It’ll be great to see them all again.
Ever been to Pittsburgh?
I’ve never been but I heard good things. I’d love to take some time to visit one day – I know we’ll be here in Birmingham for a while right now.
What does success this year look like for you?
It’s winning a championship and showing that I can be a leader. To get us all to work hard and play together on short notice, and to build good connections with my teammates.
In that linebacker role, you think you can come in and become that leader?
Definitely. I’m very vocal – I’m not afraid to say something if I see guys loafing or not playing hard. You may get mad or sad but we are all here for one goal. So I will say something. There’s no time for nonsense. I’m a cool dude and 100% with everybody though.
Lastly, what should we know about you outside of football?
Not really a lot. I’m cool dude and excited to meet the fans. So don’t hesitate to hit me up and show men what’s good kin Pittsburgh! I’m ready to work and put my head down.
I spoke to Chidi Okeke who’s Nigerian and told me he loved to cook Nigerian food. What makes you tick?
Hey! I’m also Nigerian. I was born in the states but have visited Nigeria a few times. I love to cook Nigerian food too. Maybe we’ll have to start our own cooking show!