May 25, 2010
How does this day feel for you?
I'm overwhelmed a little bit. It's been a long time coming, and I'm happy that it's here. It's another steppingstone on another avenue for me and my family. You get so pumped up for this day and you do all the hard work, and I guess it's just now hitting me that it's here. I'm ecstatic.
What does this mean to your family?
Rest in peace, my grandmother, she can't be here. She's someone who is true to my heart, and one of the forces that got me to this point. I'm going to give a shout out to her and my mother and my father, my two kids, Skylar and K.J., everyone, I'm at a loss of words.
How do you feel having been able to play professional football and come back and finish?
It's an overwhelming feeling. I got to play professional football, and on the field and off the field, you always want to do your best at both. This is a big accomplishment for me, because I did everything I wanted to do on the field in terms of being a professional, but this is the professional off the field. This is what I really wanted to accomplish and being able to do that is a gratifying feeling.
Then with this, you'll be able to receive a T ring, what will that mean?
Awesome, I don't even wear my championship rings, because that ring was dear to my heart. When I get it, I'm going to wear it with pride. It'll be like a bookend to the rest of my life going forward.
How do you want to use your degree?
I want to do something with children, whether it's coach, teach, things of that nature. My degree is in youth and community studies, so that's a natural for me. I know whatever I do, I'll do with the best of my ability.
How much of a help was the academic staff as you came back and finished?
Those guys were with me through the whole deal. Even when I first left here and went on to a professional career, they always told me that if I wanted to come back, then come back. Those guys have always been positive and supportive. Brian Davis, Jean (Bryant), Cleve (Bryant), all the coaches, they've always pushed me forward to accomplish this, and I'd just like to say thank you to everyone, all the people who have helped me to this point.
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