8/7/03

Two-Minute Drill: Derrick Johnson

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Junior Derrick Johnson is a preseason All-America linebacker from Waco, Texas, who was ranked the fourth best outside linebacker in the nation by The Sporting News, and was listed as the No. 4-rated Lombardi Trophy candidate by Lindy's entering 2003. Last season, Johnson started all 13 games at weakside linebacker and was a consensus first-team All-Big 12 selection. He also became just the second Texas linebacker to be named a Butkus Award semifinalist. He ranked second on the team with 120 tackles and was tied for second in interceptions with four. For his career, he has played in 26 games, including bowls, starting 15, and totaling 203 tackles, 26 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, 19 QB pressures and 13 pass breakups.

	Junior LB Derrick Johnson

How was the first day back?
"Today was very hard, a very hard day. There was a lot of excitement and anxiety built up, so it made us a little tired, but we got through it really well. The guys were very pumped up and just ready to get the season going."

Temperatures were over 100 degrees, how did you manage the heat?
"Getting through the heat was very hard. It was very humid and hot out here and everybody was fighting it, but in the back of their minds, they know we have something to do, and everybody got it done today."

Can you describe your emotions over the past couple of weeks leading to today?
"It's very exciting to get started. I'm ready to get back in some pads, ready to hit somebody. Everybody's ready to let some emotions out, but we'll get to let that ou once we get in pads."

What are you going to do tonight to relax and prepare for tomorrow?
"I'm going to go to sleep early tonight, and wake up a little later, too, just get a lot of rest from that first day. After the first two days, everything seems to be easier."

Do you have any personal goals or focuses as you progress through preseason practices?
"I want to work harder, be more of a leader. When guys see me working hard, I'll be able to influence them to do the same."