Hometown Clinton - Fall 2017

What was the biggest adjustment you had to make from college
football to the pros?
I had to be quicker in everything I did. The guys were bigger, faster, and
smarter in every area of the game. I had to become stronger both mentally
and physically than I had been in college. There is always someone
waiting to take your job, so you have to be diligent in everything you do
and never stop growing as a player. If you ever get comfortable, you’re
not there for long.
What's one of your fondest memories of going to high school in
Clinton?
All the friends you make as you go through high school, whether on a
team or just in class. Some are bonds you will have for the rest of your life.
Additional memories include; the Clash of the Classes competition, Mr.
Beasley’s class, Europe trip, pep rallies with shredded paper everywhere,
and paint parties.
As a pro football player, what did you enjoy doing in your free time?
I loved playing golf. Whenever I joined a new team, I would look to see
where the nearest golf course was so I could get out there with any free
time I had. I also loved going sightseeing in each town I visited. I’m real
big into history, so if it had a great story behind it, I wanted to see it.
What or who was your greatest motivation to become a pro?
My parents were my greatest motivators—not necessarily to become a
pro football player, but to work hard at whatever I decided to do with my
life. They encouraged me to strive for what I wanted—and that
encouragement can go a long way. They also never let me settle for
something when they knew I could do better regarding sports or school.
What's your favorite food?
Steak and baked potato.
What are some negatives about being a professional athlete?
It’s a business, so some of the fun and camaraderie that you had in college
and high school goes away. You’re too worried about keeping your job
every week. As they say in the business, NFL stands for “Not for Long.”
You also miss a lot of holidays with family and often you are the
entertainment on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Who are some coaches who had a positive impact in your life in
high school and how?
Jaret Holmes
Hometown Star
PROFESSIONAL KICKER/ NEW YORK GIANTS
(A former Kicker for Clinton Arrows, University of Auburn)
Hugh Christian had a big impact on me in high school. He was the soccer
coach who pulled me off the soccer team to come kick for the football
team. He also taught me the real meaning of being in shape. Never before
had I run and worked out as I did under him. Many of my workouts from
then on would have a core that came from him. Doug Hutton was another
coach that taught me a lot about work ethic and the mental side of sports.
What one football play stands out in your mind from high school?
The first time I kicked the ball through the uprights on a kickoff. I had
worked on that for months and finally one night it hit the crossbar and
went through.
What are three things on your bucket list?
To visit the Holy Land, go on a cruise, and take the whole family to see an
Iron Bowl. War Eagle!
40 • Aug/Sept/Oct 2017
Hometown Clinton • 41