First, can you let readers know what you’ve been doing since being with the Steelers?

After leaving Pittsburgh I returned home and worked for my brother in law at Bell Brothers Moving, I continued doing that until August of last year when I became a Police Officer in Austin, Texas. You can now find me running “Code 3” chasing bad guys and playing Defensive end for the Central Texas Wolf Pack Football Organization.  (First responders football league).

How hard was it for you to adjust to life after the NFL and how did you do so?

It really wasn’t that difficult, my time was short and fun but I kept myself grounded as I knew that it could end on any given play.  I returned home with my family and continued to go about business as usual. I played 2 more years in the UFL before finally calling it quits, and deciding that It was time to pursue my second childhood dream.

You signed on with the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2007. Why Pittsburgh?

That’s simple, they called first. They were the first team to express interest, the first to call.

What Steeler veterans helped mentor you as a young player – both on and off the field – and how did they do so?

There were a number of players that really helped me make it through.  I was given the ability to snap after Greg Warren tore his ACL. Greg was the first person to call me when he was injured, followed by Bob Ligashesky. Greg was always available to help me with technique when I needed it. I had two veteran kickers Mitch Berger, and Jeff Reed who were patient and good enough to deal with some errant snaps. Greg, Jeff and Mitch were helpful in my development on the field and treated me as a family member off the field.

Off the field Daniel Sepulveda had the most influence on my life as a person. Dan allowed me to stay with him at his home. Dan spoke often about God and encouraged me to believe in the plan he has for me. Dan and I attended church regularly together and continue to remain friends today.

What was your role on the team then, outside of being a long-snapper? How did you spend your practice time?

HAHA.. My role was simple, don’t screw up! During practice we would work on skills and “perfect snaps” after completing our drills we did everything we could to stay entertained. Jeff Reed always had some sort game we would play while the rest of the team practiced. Naturally, once our work for the day was done, we screwed around and tried not to end up on film!

How much did humor play a part in that and on the team in general – can you offer some examples of the hijinks or funny occurrences?

I have lots of stories from that season Jeff Reed was probably one of the funniest people I have ever been around. Jeff was well known for messing with people on and off the field.

You played for four teams across two leagues over your four year football career.  Including being waived and re-signed by the Steelers three (?) times.  How hard was that for you and how do you deal with that uncertainty as a player?

It was tough to try and live this dream. The hardest part was knowing that you could be released at any second for any reason. I struggled to live the “normal” life because we never knew where we would be. People have said it’s really tough to make it to the NFL. I would argue that it’s even harder to keep it.  While playing, I was always looking over my shoulder knowing there are people waiting for me to screw up. It was difficult dealing with the stress of knowing if I have a job tomorrow or not. I overheard a veteran player tell a younger guy, “It doesn’t matter how good you are, the day they signed you, they started looking for your replacement.” That statement was very true. This is a BIG business, and the best player is going to play.

What do you think of the way the game has changed now?

I think the NFL is doing everything they can to protect players from injuries, and make the game more interesting. However, I come from the old school moto, “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.” It think some of the fines that guys are getting for hits are out of control. That’s why we watch this game! Football is a violent sport, played by violent people. I’m going to miss seeing some of the big hits that we would otherwise see.

What advice would you give young players today?

Remember where you come from, Stay grounded, don’t get caught up in the shenanigans. Play each game like it’s your last because you never know if it’s going to be your last snap.

Any last thoughts for readers?

My wife Amber and I miss Pittsburgh, We really enjoyed the time we had there and would never change the experiences and the memories that we created. I’m proud to have been a member of 2008 World Champion Pittsburgh Steelers!

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