| Daniel Graham has emerged from his father Tom’s shadow (a defensive
tackle with the Broncos from 1972-’74), and is considered to be one of the top tight
ends in the 2002 NFL Draft, along with Jeremy Shockey of Miami (Fla.). A senior from
Colorado, Graham, 6-3, 248, runs the 40-yard dash in 4.7 seconds. Known as an exceptional
receiver, Graham has improved as a blocker and has taken steps toward becoming a more
well-rounded player. Q: This is a great TE class. How do you rate yourself?
A: I don’t compare myself to other players. I’ll let you guys and the coaches
do that. There are tight ends as good as I am. Just to be ranked up there is an honor.
Q: Do you feel like you are complete as a blocking and pass-catching tight end?
A: Yeah I do. I’ve worked very hard on my blocking and it still isn’t where
it needs to be. I think people are confident I can catch the ball, but I’ve gotten a
lot better in other areas. I really wasn’t fond of blocking when I came in.
Q: Have you exceeded your own expectations that you had coming to Boulder as a
freshman?
A: Definitely. Not that I wasn’t going to work hard and try to get to where I am,
but I just don’t think anyone can come into a program like Colorado and expect to do
those kinds of things. Just to know that people across the country are watching you and
hold (you) in high regard.
Q: How was the Senior Bowl experience for you?
A: It was a real good experience for me. I was working with the Seahawks’ coaching
staff and I learned a lot just in those two weeks.
Q: Did you ever have any pancake blocks this season?
A: Ahhh … I don’t know. I think I had 50 domination blocks or something like
that.
Q: Did you enjoy watching tapes of your dad playing at all?
A: Yeah. It is neat to see him out there on the field. He was a good player; maybe not
as good as he tells me.
Q: Your dad went to Oregon. Who was he cheering for in the Fiesta Bowl?
A: Definitely Colorado. At least during the game, he was on our side. But he let me
know that right after the game he was Duck.
Q: What do you bring to an NFL team?
A: A young tight end. Hopefully, a player that can learn and continue to improve and
become a good player at that level.
Daniel Graham vs. Tracey
Wistrom feature
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