Trip to the Bay to meet Ronnie Lott and Harris Barton
While taking a brief break from training, I had the opportunity on Tuesday to go and meet two former football greats in San Francisco. I never thought in a million years that i'd be having a two hour conversation with Ronnie Lott and Harris Barton. Ronnie Lott is arguably the greatest safety to play the game. Harris Barton was an offensive lineman who played in the Pro Bowl and had a great career in the NFL. Both guys won Super Bowls and have knowledge of the game on and off the football field. This was very exciting and an experience that will always stay with me. When Ronnie began talking, I acted like a sponge and absorbed as much information as my brain could store. He talked about the importance of being a professional and keeping a sense of urgency throughout your career. This was definitely something I could relate to having been undrafted. Ronnie also said that the great players consistently do things the right way, not gambling or guessing, but knowing your opponent and consistently playing a learned skill. I'll definitely use this valuable information to advance my game. Harris Barton and Ronnie Lott also talked about the importance of being active in the community and preparing for life after football. I mentioned my involvement with MADD and that I'm trying to reach out to the youth. Harris said it is more than just football. Players have to want to make a difference and interact with as many people as possible. They both stressed that the relationships players make early in their careers could be valuable to them over the long haul when football is over. I'll be sure to focus on these things and apply what I've learned to my life.
