| Q: How did you feel about being selected by the Lions? A: I was
unbelievably surprised. I was told five minutes earlier that they were going in another
direction. I was just about to sit down with my mom and dad and watch the Lions pick
another player. I got a phone call and I
was shocked, caught off guard and thrilled. Through talking with my agent, I was told
the Lions were talking on the phone with (CB Quentin) Jammer's agent and working on a
deal. I was about to sit down and this happened, and I couldn't be happier. The Lions are
an excellent organization and the Fords have done a great job of running a class
organization. Just to be a part of that, I am absolutely thrilled.
Q: What do you think about the possibility of becoming the Lions' starting
quarterback?
A: That was not really discussed. It was mentioned, and obviously there is going to be
some competition, and that's a part of football. I am looking forward to coming and
playing, and whoever is on the field and makes the team better, that is the bottom line. I
look forward to that competition and helping the team.
Q: What was behind your decision not to be in New York for Draft Day?
My family has been and is a very big part of my life. They are one of the biggest
influences on why I decided to stay in-state and go to school (Oregon) and I wanted to be
here at home to share this with them. It had nothing to do with rumors of slipping in the
draft, I wanted to be here and share this with my family.
Q: What do you know about the Lions?
A: I don't know many of the players to be honest. I met many of the coaches, and I was
unable to meet Mr. Ford. I was able to do that this morning. From what I saw on my visit
there, it is an organization that is willing to put in the effort to be great. That really
excites me.
Q: What do you know about the Lions’ offense?
A: West coast offense is a pretty general term. What I know about it, you throw a lot
of quick reads, a lot of flats, a lot of curls, a lot of getting the ball out quick; all
of which we did a lot of at Oregon.
Q: How is the knee injury you suffered in post-season all-star play?
A: I'm fine, terrific, I have no problem. I was fine at the combine.
Q: How do you feel about competing with Mike McMahon?
A: It will be fun, that is a part of football. That is a part of the competition that
makes the team better. I'm excited to just get back on the field. It's been tough sitting
and watching. I watched a couple of Oregon practices last week, I'm just ready to get back
on the field.
Q: What do you bring to the Lions?
A: I think what I bring to the table is not all physical skills. I definitely have the
ability to play at this level. I'm not going to go out and run a 4.3, or throw the ball 75
yards, that is not my style.
Q: How do you feel about coming to Michigan?
A: We've been prepared for leaving Oregon for a while. Detroit is one of the closest
cities that was talking to me, the others were mostly on the east coast. Some people are
relieved that I am not going all the way across the country just three-fourths.
Q: Do you expect to sign your your contract on time?
A: Signing is very important to me. I'm going to be in camp, there are no two ways
about that. |
