First off, why did you decide to sign with the Steelers?
After my injury settlement with Atlanta, I was waiting for a couple of months for a call. I had a workout visit with the Steelers during that time. They were the only ones that contacted my agent. I don’t know how they knew about me for sure, but I think it was from our last preseason game. We played Pittsburgh and I had a pretty good game {six catches, 71 yards} and I’m sure that was a big reason why they signed me.
What was your biggest learning curve as a rookie and did anyone help most in year one for you to learn the NFL game?
I’ll say two things. First – creating a real schedule for myself. Whether I was working out in the morning or evening, just creating and keeping a daily schedule that made sure I took care of my body and kept myself healthy.
Also, playing at a Division II school, the playbook was different. I needed to learn to take more time and study the playbook more. To take more time for myself.
You were so dynamic at Oklahoma Baptist. What did they Steelers say to you about your role for them when they signed you? Special teams? Slot receiver? Is there an area they want to have you focus on?
I couldn’t answer what they want me to do because I haven’t had those types of conversations yet with them. But I do think I can have success returning kickoffs and punts – I had success doing that in college and I think that would be a good way to make my way then into the offense.
What makes you a good return man and receiver?
I think its my technique – my ability to keep my eye on the ball while defenders are coming at me. I have a lot of experience in the return game in college.
As a receiver, I focus a lot on the small details. I run routes at the right depth and with the right timing – I think my route-running is a strength of mine
Speaking of Division II Oklahoma Baptist, the last NFL player from there was Ewell Phillips who played in 1936! What does it feel like, representing the school like this?
It’s surreal – most guys come out of high school with stars and offers. I didn’t have that. But they took me in. I wouldn’t say it put a chip on my shoulder – I just think it made me grind harder.
How did the NFL discover you in the first place?
My receiver coach at the time, Daniel Eaton, had experience as an agent and had connections. He later became the offensive coordinator there. We also had some NFL guys come around the year before – there was a quarterback and receiver some teams showed a little interest in so I’m sure they saw me then.
What does the hire of Arthur Smith do for you and the team – especially with his focus on receivers being able to block?
In my time at Atlanta he was the head coach – he emphasized blocking early on in camp. I think I do a good job blocking – I did that well in college. Being able to do that – I’m all for it. It’s part of the game and something you have to do as a receiver.
How would you describe Coach Smith to other Steelers players?
He’s real laid back. He can be funny but he’s all about his business. He’s old school – all about doing the job right. He’s a good coach to play for but you have to be on your “A” game. He expects you to focus on the small details and get them right, or you won’t play.
What do you feel you do well – where do you think you fit best?
I think I’m best at doing whatever it is that they need – regardless of whether I am blocking or have the ball. I think we can all improve on everything we do of course.
What can you improve on most?
I’d say playing faster. Less thinking and playing faster – at NFL speed.
That gets back to knowing the playbook right?
Exactly.
Getting back to special teams – is this an area you think you can have an impact in in Pittsburgh- in the return game?
Definitely. We played them last year and I saw who they had there then. I looked at the roster this year – I think it’s all up for grabs. I know Calvin Austin is back there but I think it’s all up for grabs -it just depends on who goes and gets it.
Lastly, what should fans know about you that – what makes you tick that has nothing to do with football?
My mom – she was a single mother with four kids. I’d love to help her retire sooner – that makes me grind harder. Her dedication to us – there was never a moment she didn’t try.
And I like to draw. I would love to get into fashion after football – to get my Masters and teach design.
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