First off, what made you decide to sign with the Steelers?
The Steelers I know were at my pro day. I know they saw me then and talked to me a bit then. I thought I’d get calls from some other teams too but the Steelers were the only ones that called, and invited me to their rookie mini-camp for a tryout.
What do you bring to the team do you think at that defensive line spot?
I bring a disruptive force. I’m great with assignments and am a leader. I know every team has leaders but I like to lead by example on and off of the field. I feel like I’m the best player on the field when I’m out there. I love to show that confidence without being cocky.
Is there a particular style of defense you excel in most?
I can play in all defenses. Whatever they need I can excel at it. In the running game I can be dominant but I can be disruptive in the passing game too. You didn’t get to see it a lot last year because I was double-teamed a lot but I still was able to force a bunch of hurries – I just had less sacks.
Do you know any of the guys on the team? Have you spoken to any of them the Steelers?
Deuce Watts and David Perales – I know both of those guys. Watts and I played together in JUCO in 2019 at Jones College. David and I talked a lot during the season when he’d come back and gave me a good gist of things.
What do you think you need to show the coaches to get signed for camp?
I gotta show dominance and disruption. And that I’m coachable and flexible. I can play in a three-man front on the right, nose, or left side. Whatever they need. I just don’t want to be pigeon-holed.
Who were some of the mentors that helped you get to where you are now? How did they help you?
To be honest growing up and participating in the PALS program (Police Athletic League) helped me a lot as a kid. I did a bunch of boxing there as a kid. Growing up like I did gave me a lot of motivation – it made me not want to give up. I never wanted to have to go back to where I came from unless it was to help others.
Did boxing help you as a football player?
I was a kid but I think it did help me with my hand usage a bit. And it helped me to understand never to give up.
Have you ever been to Pittsburgh?
I’ve never been no – but I hear there’s a lot of good food! I was told I’d like it there!
What do you think is the best part of your game and where can you improve most?
I think it’s that I’m a dual threat. I recognize plays well and can be disruptive in the pass and run game. I’m working on playing lower – on getting better leverage. I’m working on flexibility – doing flexibility work to get better there.
What does success look like for you year one?
I hope first to go and do well in rookie min-camp – to compete and get signed for training camp. That’s the first thing. I want to show what I can do and show kids not to give up.
Anyone you’re looking forward to meeting most when you’re there?
Cam Heyward and TJ Watt – I’m really excited to meet those guys!
Lastly, what makes you tick outside of football?
My son – a lot of my time is focused on him and time with my family. I also like to play basketball and go on nature hikes and walks. I love animals.
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