First, tell us why you signed with Pittsburgh ? What sold you on them and vice-versa?
After the XFL I just wanted to get back into the NFL as fast as I could. Pittsburgh was the first to show interest and they wanted me to be there to compete and go through camp. Me and my agent talked about that and other opportunities and thought this was a great opportunity for me to compete and make a team.
Any idea what role they expect you to play – what safety spot?
Any role right now – anything to make the team. I know special teams is the first way I can make the team, but I have to play at a high level there and at safety. My main thing is to learn the playbook quickly and go as fast as I can there.
You were named the team captain your Senior year at Michigan. How does that play out as far as your on field play and leadership is concerned?
The biggest thing for me is being vocal on the field. Communication for the safety position is so important – and I talk to the corners, nickel backs and linebackers all the time to make sure everyone is on the same page. I see the field well and know formations well and get everyone lined up in the right place. That was my style in Michigan for sure.
What made you effective in XFL and a player the Steelers decided they wanted to sign – did you change any part of game?
I think it started in Cincinnati last year. Learning their playbook and seeing how things worked in the NFL. That was a big jump for me going into the XFL. There were so many NFL coaches and talent there – it helped make my transition smoother
Is there anything specific you feel you need to focus on to improve your game?
I think I am just trying to improve in all areas and do what I’m good at. I’m training now to improve in every area – that’s my perspective. Other people may have different opinions of what I need to work on but I’m trying to improve in every area.
There’s a pretty big hole at safety depth right now – were you aware of that and what do you bring that fills a big need there?
First I know I need to do well on special teams to make the 53. I watched Pittsburgh a lot last year and know they have two good starters at safety. The depth is one thing my agent and I talked about but I just want to do my part and learn the system. I don’t want to try and press too much and go crazy. I’ve been in an NFL camp – I know how to come in and compete, and I’ll do that every day
I’m a competitive guy and see the field well on the back end. And I’m a sure tackler in open field as well.
As you mentioned – they have two experienced starters plus veteran guys to learn from at the corners as well. What do you hope to learn most from those guys?
One of the big things is learning how they watch film – and just how to go about the job every day. In the XFL I had time to learn from guys like Shamarko Thomas, Matt Elam and Raheem Moore – NFL veterans who played a lot in the NFL. I learned from them – picked their brain every day. I’ll do the same thing in Pittsburgh and learn from them as well.
As you mentioned special teams will be key to making the team – what experience do you have on special teams?
I played on special teams in Michigan – i had a big role my first two years and was the most productive special teams player at Michigan my Sophomore year. In Cincinnati I played on all the special teams and in the XFL with the DC Defenders, I played on kickoffs and kick returns.
Lastly, what are you off field interests – tell us what we should know about you – especially as a new dad!
Yeah – we had a baby last year. Before she got here I played for the love of the game and hating to lose – wanting to win for my team. Now, with her here, I feel like I’m competing for her and my family as well.
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