The Herd with Colin Cowherd - 'Boys and Girl - NFL Draft Prospects Stanford CB Paulson Adebo, TCU S Tre’von Moehrig, and Miss. St. RB Kylin Hill on COVID Pre-Draft Prep

Episode Date: February 3, 2021

On today’s episode of the 'Boys and Girl Podcast, Jane and Bobby broadcast from EXOS in Frisco, TX, where several top draft prospects are training. Stanford Corner Paulson Adebo, TCU Safety Tre’vo...n Moehrig, and Mississippi State Running Back Kylin Hill all stop by to discuss their pre-draft training, and the possibility of playing for the Cowboys. Follow Jane and Bobby on Twitter and subscribe to get all the latest inside information from two of the most connected people in the Cowboys’ community. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcript
Discussion (0)
Starting point is 00:00:00 This is an I-Heart podcast. Guaranteed Human. Another podcast from some SNL, late-night comedy guy, not quite. Unhumor me with Robert Smygel and friends. Me and hilarious guests from Bob Odenkirk to David Letterman help make you funnier. This week, my guest, SNL's Mikey Day and head writer, Streeter Seidel, help an a cappella band with their between songs banter.
Starting point is 00:00:23 Where does your group perform? We do some retirement homes. Those people are starving for banter. Listen to humor me with Robert Smigel and friends on the I Heart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. What's up, fam? It's Isaiah Thomas. And I'm C.J. Toledano. It's our favorite time of the year on our podcast point game, the playoffs. We're digging into the biggest surprises of the season. And I'm looking back on some of my greatest playoff moments. If we didn't talk ever again, I was crying.
Starting point is 00:00:48 You just understood. That's how personal it got. Wow. Then after that game seven, Mark keep coming to him. He's like, you know I love you, dog. You know, it's all love. This was just playoffs. This was just basketball. Listen to Point Game on the Iheart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. The story I've told myself can then shape my behavior, and that can lead me to sabotage the possibility of connection. This Mental Health Awareness Month, tune into the podcast Deeply Well with Debbie Brown. If you've been searching for a soft place to land while doing the work to become whole, this podcast is for you to hear more. Listen to Deeply Well with Debbie Brown from the Black Effect Podcast Network.
Starting point is 00:01:29 on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast. Hey, it's Edwin Castro, also known as Castro 1021. And I'm Conky, his best friend and business manager. And we've got a new show called The 1021 podcast. I'm taking you behind the scenes on how I became one of Twitch's most popular streamers. We also love sports. And with the World Cup right around the corner, we'll be breaking down the biggest storylines ahead of the big tournament.
Starting point is 00:01:59 here in the USA. Listen to the 1021 podcast on the Iheart radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Get right to the romance and find the way to wow this valentines with 1,800flowers.com. From classic roses and bouquets to decadent chocolate-covered berries, gourmet treats, and more.
Starting point is 00:02:23 Surprise your Valentine with 1,800flowers.com. Right now, get the 18-stem enchanted rose medley for 399 or up. upgrade to 24 red roses for $10 more. Go to 1,800flowers.com slash tune in. That's 1,800flowers.com slash tune in. Hello, boys and girls. Welcome in to the Boys and Girl podcast with Cowboys NFL Network reporter Jane Slater
Starting point is 00:02:52 and NFL network producer Bobby Belt, a Cowboys community with the inside scoop on the Dallas Cowboys. Now, coming straight to you from the Lone Star State, here's Jane and Bobby. Well, after taking a little bit of a hiatus after what was a particularly challenging season, not only for the Cowboys, but I think a lot of us covering this team in the media, we needed a bit of a reset, but we do this because we love football. And it is so awesome to be able to have some access here at Exos Performance Center, especially given the fact that a lot of these guys are going to have, Scouts and GMs calling performance centers like this, Bobby, to get a handle of these guys
Starting point is 00:03:36 because they're not allowed on the college campuses or the access that we've had guys like Daniel Jeremiah tell us about in the past. Yeah, it's a brave new world for scouts, GMs, coaches, everybody else. This is as limited of access. You talk to people around the league. This is the most limited access they've ever had leading up to a draft. So, yeah, places like this and the access that they afford and some of the things that, you know, the insights that they can offer, it's really, very.
Starting point is 00:04:00 valuable, not just to teams, obviously, but to us to be able to come up here and chat with them. And hopefully we can pass on some of that insight with the people that we chat with up here. And not only that, we're seeing guys like Gerald McCoy, who I know a lot of questions about what this Cowboys defense is going to look like next year. We'll start digging into some of the challenges that were in that locker room as we get closer to the season and we start talking about the sort of guys that Dan Quinn and this new coaching staff are going to be looking for. but I truly believe Bobby and again we'll get into this at a later date that this team is going to be a lot more responsive to what this coaching staff brings the locker room.
Starting point is 00:04:42 But with that being said, I think there are questions who's going to be back. Is this going to be a 4-3, a 3-4 scheme? Well, we've seen Gerald McCoy every time we've been up here putting in the work. Maybe Gerald will jump on and talk to us at some point. But a guy that I think a lot of people in that locker room valued for, For what he did for guys, even like Neville Gallimore, sure. Though he wasn't a part of this team, he was still there in spirit.
Starting point is 00:05:08 And I think that's some sort of veteran leadership that this locker room could certainly use. Absolutely. I mean, true to his word, he said after his injury and after the release, he spoke about how he still wanted to be a mentor and help people out. And that's exactly what he did. You talk to people up here and you see him up here. Guys that aren't even his teammates necessarily, just rookies that are up here that he's talking to and trying to coach up. and teach them things about the game. And so there's a lot of interesting stuff here.
Starting point is 00:05:33 We've got a lot of interesting people that we're going to be talk with over the next few episodes. Today we're going to be talking to Stanford Corner Pulse and Adibo, who's from Mansfield. Loved him. Opt it out. He's great. We're also going to be talking to TCU Safety, Trayvon Merrig, who could play Corner, to be honest. That dude's incredible.
Starting point is 00:05:49 And he'll likely be a first-round pick. He's a guy that I think everybody's going to like a lot. And then we're also going to be talking with Mississippi State running back, Kylan Hill, who has a lot of connections, actually, to the Cowboy. boys, you'd be surprised. And he's another guy who announced he who's going to the draft last year, decided to come back to school, and then ultimately opted out. But a lot of people talk to in this episode and a lot of people in the coming episodes. And so if you notice, by the way, we've done this over a couple of them. If you notice wardrobe changes, don't worry about the continuity. That was
Starting point is 00:06:17 just separate days. So don't worry about it. And I think what I love the most about this is, while you and I may not be able to be a fly on the wall at Senior Bowl or Pro Days or some of these Combines. We're getting to ask questions that we're genuinely interested in knowing about some of these guys. And two of the individuals in this episode did not shy away, well, actually all three of them, didn't shy away from wading into what some would consider in the past controversial topics. But this has been a year that has shaped the league as it relates to social justice as it related to this virus. We've got guys that have opted out. What is their day-to-day look like? How did they stay engaged? Did they miss a beat by not having live
Starting point is 00:07:06 game action? Was that better for their bodies? But again, I just generally love when they come into the league and they're sort of bright-eyed and bushy-teled. And they're not jaded by people like you and I, Bobby. There is, there's, to this point, and there's a lot of guys here at the facility this year, there's like 50 of them. I have not run into a big ego here. Not one. And, that's not always been the case. You'll usually run into one or two, but they've got a really good group of guys here this year, guys with really high football character,
Starting point is 00:07:38 the right kind of guys, as Jason Garrett would call them. Passion and purpose, the two P's have really kind of stood out for me as we've talked to some of these guys. So I hope you've enjoyed, or we'll enjoy, rather, some of the interviews that we're going to bring you over the next couple of weeks. I've certainly enjoyed it.
Starting point is 00:07:54 Like I said, this is the part of my job that I absolutely love. And I always go back to my man, Bobby Belt. He does a lot of the framework for this, a lot of the groundwork. He helps develop some of these relationships and the access that we've had. So I'm indebted to them, but also, like I said, to the Exos Performance Center for allowing us this opportunity to not only come up here and get to know the guys, but just for me. Imagine an Olympics where doping is not only legal, but encouraged. It's the enhanced games.
Starting point is 00:08:24 Some call it grotesque. Others say it's unleashing human potential. Either way, the podcast's. Superhuman documented it all, embedded in the games and with the athletes for a full year. Within probably 10 days, I'd put on 10 pounds. I was having trouble stopping the muscle growth. Listen to Superhuman on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. What's up, fam? It's Isaiah Thomas.
Starting point is 00:08:50 And I'm C.J. Toledano, and our podcast Point Game is about defying the odds. Like LeBron heading into the playoffs without Luca and Austin Reed. And finding ways to win no matter what. He's the smartest player to ever play the game. His IQ is at a level that we've never seen before. And he knows. Without Luca and Austin Reeves, I got to manipulate the game. We get a player's perspective on the challenges of the playoffs.
Starting point is 00:09:13 I think Joker's going to be exhausted this series because when they don't have Rudy in the lineup, he has to really guard guys like Nas Reid. He has to guard Julius Randall. And then he has to give us everything he gives us on the night-to-night basis on offense. And when IT's friends stop by, like Quentin Richardson, we dive into some playoff history too.
Starting point is 00:09:31 Steve Nash will get that thing. That man, hell get the flying. He running up the court, licking his fingers why he got the ball, like, after you go through a training camp with that, I said, you figure it out real quick. Get your ass up and down the court, and you're going to get the ball.
Starting point is 00:09:47 So listen to Point Game on the I Heart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. The story I've told myself about love or relationships can then shake my behavior, and that can lead me to sabotage the possibility of connection. This Mental Health Awareness Month, tune into the podcast deeply well with Debbie Brown and explore the journey of healing, self-discovery,
Starting point is 00:10:12 and returning to yourself. We explore higher consciousness, emotional well-being, and the practices that help you find clarity, peace, and self-mastery in a world that can feel overwhelming. The world is becoming lonelier. We're not becoming more social and social. connected. We're becoming more individualized, but we
Starting point is 00:10:32 actually meet people in connection. If you've been searching for a soft place to land while doing the work to become whole, this podcast is for you to hear more. Listen to deeply well with Debbie Brown from the Black Effect Podcast Network on the Iheart Radio app, Apple Podcasts,
Starting point is 00:10:48 or wherever you get your podcast. If you're watching the latest season of the Real Housewives of Atlanta, you already know there's a lot to break down. Georgia accusing Kelly of sleeping with a merry man. They holding Kay Michelle back from fighting Drew.
Starting point is 00:11:04 Pinky has financial issues. I like the bougie style of Housewives show. I think it looks like it's going to be interesting. On the podcast, Reality with the King, I, Carlos King, recap the biggest moments from your favorite reality shows, including the Real Housewives franchise. The drama, the alliances, and the team everybody's talking about. As an executive producer in reality television, I'm not just. watching it, I understand the game. As somebody who creates shows, I'll even say this.
Starting point is 00:11:34 At the end of the day, when people are at home, they want entertainment. To hear this and more, listen to Reality with the King on the IHard Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast. In my career, continuing to be a sponge and learn more and more about the game, I think that makes me more valuable to you. Shout out to Brent Calloway, the performance director here, who is awesome, is one of the best people. you'll ever meet and has been really helpful in helping us bring this stuff to you because there's not a lot of this access and not a lot of these people that we're hearing from with these socially distanced senior bowls and combines and everything else. And so really appreciate Brent giving us some access here to bring these guys to you.
Starting point is 00:12:17 If you love to be remembered as the person who gives the best birthday gifts, I'm here to tell you that 1-800flowers.com is your ultimate birthday gifting destination. Flowers has thoughtful and artfully created options that are guaranteed to deliver the best birthday surprise. Shop thousands of unique gifts at 1-800flowers.com for exclusive offers and great values. To order today, visit 1-800flowers.com slash tune-in. That's 1-800flowers.com slash tune-in. And we're live here outside the Perez family home just waiting for the... And there they go. Almost on time this morning. Mom is coming out the front door. strong with a double-armed kid carry.
Starting point is 00:13:00 Looks like dad has the bags. Daughter is bringing up the rear. Oh, but the diaper bag wasn't closed. Dipers and toys are everywhere. Ooh, but Mom has just nailed the perfect car seat buckle for the toddler. And now, the eldest daughter, who looks to be about nine or ten,
Starting point is 00:13:18 has secured herself in the booster seat. Dad zips the bag closed, and they're off. Ah, but looks like Mom doesn't realize her coffee cup is still on the roof of the car. And there it goes! Oh, that's a shame. That mug was a fam favorite. Don't sweat the small stuff.
Starting point is 00:13:35 Just nail the big stuff. Like making sure your kids are buckled correctly in the right seat for their age and size. Learn more at nhtsa.gov slash the right seat. Visit nhTSA.gov slash the right seat. Brought to you by NHTSA and the Ad Council. Adoption of teens from foster care is a topic not enough people know about and we're here to change that. I'm April Dinwiddie host of the new podcast, Navigating Adoption. presented by Adopt U.S. Kids.
Starting point is 00:14:00 Each episode brings you compelling real-life adoption stories told by the families that live them with commentary from experts. Visit Adoptuskids.org slash podcast or subscribe to navigating adoption presented by Adopt U.S. Kids. Brought to you by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families and the Ad Council. Joining us now is Stanford cornerback Paulson Adiebo, also a Mansfield High School alum from the DFW area, at DFW Kid. And we're glad that he's joining us today out here at Exos and Frisco where we're talking to a few people. Paulson, how are you doing? I'm good.
Starting point is 00:14:36 Thanks for having you. Absolutely. So first question, I know you were one of the, I want to say you were one of the first like five or ten guys. I remember opting out of the CFP season this year. What went into the decision? Because I know there was people wondering if you were going to come out last year. You chose to go back to school. So what went into your decision to opt out?
Starting point is 00:14:55 And do you have anything, any regrets in retrospect? Do you wish you would have stayed around or do you feel like you made the right decision? I feel like I made the right decision. I don't think it's one of those things to look back and try to dwell on what could have been. I think the decision to opt out kind of starts with my decision to come back last year in January. So obviously last year I had an opportunity to kind of test the water and see if I wanted to declare for the NFL draft. After getting like my scouting results back and stuff, I felt like I had more to put on the table. So that was kind of the main reason for coming back to get an opportunity to up my draft stock,
Starting point is 00:15:30 but also to compete one more time with my teammates and try to play for championship. And then as the season started approaching, the way things were moving, just so much uncertainty from the coaches from pretty much everywhere, kind of nobody really giving us a clear picture of what a season would look like. And for me, somebody who wanted to come back to kind of put my best foot forward, it just didn't make sense to kind of play a season where at any moment, you know, I can be suspended or have to miss two, three games. Not only that, people forget, I mean, the Pact 12 was one of the last conferences to start up. And actually, at the time that
Starting point is 00:16:06 I opted out, we had already canceled our season. So we were planning on doing a spring season. And for me, it didn't make sense to play a spring season, so I kind of opted out that way. So it was a bunch of different things that kind of played into it. And then obviously they ended up playing at the end, but even that looked a little rough. So I think it's not necessarily a thing to kind of look back and say I should, it could have would have for me. I'd made a decision that went with it. So I've been training since October. I feel like I'm in the best shape that I've been in physically, mentally.
Starting point is 00:16:35 So I'm really excited. You were one of the players that I was fascinated in talking to because we've sort of jokingly phrased you guys that have forgotten. Because so many guys were putting out tape, you were one of the guys that was out here grinding day in and day out. And as you illustrate it to me, I can see how it would make more sense. to sort of approach this the way a minor league baseball player would or preparing as if you're going to get the call up. What does your day look like starting in October?
Starting point is 00:17:07 What does your weeks look like? And how have you stayed focused and locked in as you watch teammates, guys that you knew growing up, actually playing on Saturdays? Right. It was definitely really weird watching football and not being out there that's probably the first time not playing a football season since like seventh grade or something. definitely weird, but I think coming here to Exos in Dallas, working with Brent, the whole staff, they kind of just really did a good job of, like, helping me stay prepared and
Starting point is 00:17:34 helping me stay focused. So basically, since October, maybe like 21st or something, when I first got here, pretty much Monday through Friday, we'd live three times a week, run two times a week, and then I'd come here. Now, the schedule has kind of changed because we added some more players, but earlier I'd come in at one, or I come in at 11, do physical therapy, go back, maybe take a nap, come back at one, run, then lift, go back, do whatever I wanted to do. Usually I end up watching film or watching sometimes my team what they're doing, but also just watching other players in general and just catching up on college football, watching league, film, stuff like that.
Starting point is 00:18:16 Recently, as we've added more players, the day has kind of changed, but it's the same kind of philosophy, Monday through Friday, actually Monday through Saturday. So 8 a.m. I do speed work and then go back home, come back at around 11.30, do position work, go back home, come back at like one lift. So it's kind of a field day. But breaks in between, so it allows me to eat and recover in between they feed us, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. So it's really a good setup. It feels sort of like he's already in OTA's training camp mode, which I would imagine is hard for college guys to make. that transition. Have you had access to even players in the area, you know, free agents and guys sort of training that you've been able to, do you think benefit from the experience of being around guys like this? Right. Definitely kind of, I think in college we're worrying about a couple different things and worrying about classes. I got an exam, especially going to
Starting point is 00:19:15 Stanford. It was a little tough to juggle both things. So now just totally being locked in on football is definitely kind of a weight off your shoulders and really allows you to really focus on what you need to. So I definitely appreciate that aspect of it. I know when you talk about getting that position work, I know you've been working with Clay Mack who, you know, we've had on the show, he's a friend of ours and has a great reputation of helping guys kind of perfect their craft a little bit. Do you think there's, I guess, an argument to be made that, you know, you hear from some people that, well, they miss the college football season. They didn't put film out like we were talking about. Would you say there's potentially a bigger benefit for you personally,
Starting point is 00:19:53 that you're not focusing on weekly game prep and other things like that, and instead just focusing on polishing up your skills and working with Clay every day to get those right? Right. I think there's a give and take. Obviously, I miss getting game experience this year, so I'm not going to count that off as being trivial. That's obviously important. But on the back end, I have been able to get a lot more technique work,
Starting point is 00:20:13 a lot more mobility work, a lot more just strengthening. So physically I feel like I'm in the best position than I've been in a game like eight pounds. So physically I feel like there's definitely something. Something to be said there, having been here for two, three months working with Clay and kind of fine-tuning the technique and stuff like that that you normally wouldn't be able to in the season. You're probably banged up, dealing with injuries. You can't really get into extra work that you want to to kind of perfect your craft. You're kind of just holding on as a season goes on.
Starting point is 00:20:40 So I think in that aspect, it definitely does help to have been here working with Clay and working with Brent. You know, to his point, because it was such a stop-start season, and it was so hard for players to get the games in, and probably to be around a facility. And, you know, the fact that you're sort of removed from consistent workouts, I would imagine getting tested here, wearing the mask, working out. It was a little bit easier just to stay focused and keep your body right. Because even if you had been able to put out tape,
Starting point is 00:21:12 how much quality tape are you putting out? Exactly. I mean, we had an abbreviated season. At a certain point, our guys were traveling on the road because they couldn't practice in their county. Santa Clara County. So just a lot of different obstacles. You know, for them, I think it was, it was great that they found a way to do it with all the adversity. They found a way to have a season. So I was really happy to see that for them. But at the same time, I don't know that that would
Starting point is 00:21:35 have been the best situation for me. But again, I don't want to kind of dwell and try to weigh them. I just kind of made a decision and went with it. Now, I remember a couple years ago, there was a guy coming out of Notre Dame Jerry Tillerie, and Jerry was considered like first-round type of talent. and there was this chatter you kept hearing about. And when you talked to people in NFL circles, they were like, he's got a lot of varied interests. I was kind of like, okay? And it's like, what's the problem?
Starting point is 00:22:02 It was like, you know, well, you just wonder how much do they love football? Because they're interested in a lot of other things. Are they completely focused on football? So, I mean, anybody who follows you on social media, which you can follow him on Twitter at Paulson A-17. And on Instagram I'm going to try to remember. It was at P-A-U-1-S-O-N. Underscore.
Starting point is 00:22:21 Underscore. You're close. Damn it. Okay. But anybody who follows you, sees, you've got a lot of varied interests, including football. Do you think that's anything that you will have to talk about with teams or answers is that, like, look, I'm going to need to sell you guys, I guess, on my love of football. Or do you think that's unquestioned by teams at this point? I think it should be unquestioned.
Starting point is 00:22:40 But if that's something that, if they have questions or whatever, like, I'm more than happy to answer them. I don't think that there's anything. He's been here every day, five days a week, six days a week. He's crushing it. You are going to get that question, though. Yeah, for sure. I think that, especially in 2020, I mean, there's just so much going on, right? And I'm working out and I'm seeing a bunch of different things going on, whether it's social justice, whether it's COVID-19, where it's a lot of different things that people really don't have the answers to. And for me, it just kind of felt disingenuine to kind of just sit back and not say anything. And I think that for athletes, you know, there's a level of humility that we need to approach things with that says, you know, I don't have the answers. It's not like I'm sitting up here telling you that, like, you know, I'm the end-all, be-all, and I'm the expert on. It's like not at all. Like, I think something's going on.
Starting point is 00:23:22 I don't really know. But I think it's super interesting. And I feel like, especially in today's climate, it's important to kind of have that kind of conversation. But don't get a twist of like I love ball. Like, that's what I want to do. Well, and I know that is a popular question from NFL scouts. And it sounds like a basic one, but they like it because it fleshes things out a little
Starting point is 00:23:41 bit, which is, and all this gets you hear is, why do you love football? Why do you love the game? Right. I mean, for me personally, that's what I've been doing my whole life. Right. I remember being, I grew up in like an apartment. complex. So what that kind of did for me was like being able to interact with a lot of different kids as opposed to like living in the neighborhood where it's like you have two neighbors and that's who you hang out with. So I saw a lot of different people come in and the common thing for us was football. You know, some people from all different backgrounds, one of my best friends. You know, I still know I'm from kindergarten. We still live in the same apartment complex and we would just play football every day. So just having that, you know, to kind of draw me into things from my early age. I've just kept that all the way. And obviously my brother's play. played football and basketball, and I pretty much played everything growing up.
Starting point is 00:24:23 So football was kind of mostly the main sport for me growing up, but I just loved playing sports and being competitive, to be honest. I love that you have a voice because I think what we saw from the NFL, something that I hadn't seen covering this league for the last six years with just the NFL network doing it for years before that, was the NFL is allowing you the latitude to do that. So when you look at guys like Malcolm Jenkins and Richard Sherman, is that one of your pushbacks that you can love football and have varied interest? For sure. I don't think I try to emulate what people are doing, to be honest. I don't think that I'm not, I'm very much like I don't necessarily like the spotlight on me, to be honest. But if there's something that I'm super passionate about it, I think it's very important, I'll say something about it.
Starting point is 00:25:10 But it's not like I'm setting out to be a personality or something like that. I don't view it that way. What are some of your other interests? The interest, I love watching just football highlights when I'm bored. Netflix, play the guitar a little bit. I kind of wanted to, I think I saw a video of like Christian McCaffrey playing the harmonica when I was coming out of high school. I was like, man, that's cool.
Starting point is 00:25:35 I need to learn something. So I started picking up the guitar a little bit, so I do that a little bit. I say I'm like a campfire guitarist level. I can play a couple things. But then just hanging out with friends. Yeah, I think I really love watching, like, interviews of, like, people I think are inspirational. So, you know, whether it's like Will Smith or anybody who's done anything super big, I feel like it's always good to kind of see where their mind's at
Starting point is 00:25:58 and kind of get the competitive edge from watching how they, like, take care of themselves. Why Stanford? Why a kid from Mansfield thinking Stanford? You know, there's a lot of big 12 schools that I'm sure would have loved to have had you. There's a lot of North Texas. And I'm excited to hear what you're going to say because I know for a fact there's a lot of North Texas kids that this state has lost out onto Stanford in the last few years. Yeah, we got a couple guys from Dallas.
Starting point is 00:26:19 Caden Smith? Yeah, we always kind of have that like whenever we get a Texas guy, we're always kind of proud of it. But for me, Stanford was just a different place. Coming out of high school, obviously I could have went anywhere. I had offers from Georgia, you know, Notre Dame. I was committed to Notre Dame for a really long time, actually. And I really liked it up there, and I really wanted to kind of go up there.
Starting point is 00:26:40 But when Stanford came, that was right around the time, Christian McCaffrey was there and they had all the hype and just seeing that, you know, you can go to a place like that and compete at the highest level. That was super important for me. But then going there, meeting the guys in the locker room, just a good group of guys, to be honest, and then knowing that I would still have the opportunity to compete for Pack 12 championships. So for me, it was like kind of a little bit of a no-brainer. So you're from DFW.
Starting point is 00:27:07 You're training out here in Friscoe near the home of the Dallas Cowboys. Have you thought any about, hey, what if I end up with Star on my helmet? Yeah, that would be cool. That would be really cool. I mean, I didn't grow up, like, having a team or anything. I kind of just liked teams that were exciting. So back and day, I liked the same. I was to say, if it's exciting and given your age, there wasn't a lot of cowboy fandom, I wouldn't guess.
Starting point is 00:27:30 Well, I think fantasy football has had a lot to do with this. I've argued that fantasy football has sort of taken away that the kids that grew up or you only... You follow players instead of teams. Right. Or the city you lived in would get blacked out of certain teams that you were a fan of. Now you have access to, I mean, NFL Game Pass, there's your plug. Obviously fantasy football. So I think you follow players, right?
Starting point is 00:27:53 Yeah, exactly. I think just any team that was exciting for me, I kind of followed growing up. So I never had like a specific team, but it would be cool to play at home for sure. What type of locker room culture would make sense for you? Honestly, I think that I can fit in any locker room. I never even here, you know, obviously around. You know, there's different kind of guys, people from, you know, from the SEC, from the Big 12. I think one of my strong suits is, like, I've had the opportunity to interact with a lot of different people.
Starting point is 00:28:21 And that's one thing that Stanford did do for me, I think, was having, you know, one of my best friends is from New Hampshire, one of my other friends from Arizona, like Florida, just guys from everywhere. So I don't think that I have a problem interacting with anybody, to be honest. Okay, so because I know that you're such an intriguing guy away from the football field, there's a few get-to-know-you questions that I got for you. You're ready? All right, cool. So I know you played basketball growing up, including at high school.
Starting point is 00:28:47 I love this guy. I love his confidence. He's got the swagger. So rank Kobe LeBron MJ. You're asking him this question on Kobe Day? I asked this. That's wrong, man. I ask this to everybody.
Starting point is 00:29:00 This is Kobe-Lebron-J. You can't ask this question today. I know why. They're all great. They're all in their own kind of little league. They're easily the top three all time, I think. But personally, I didn't really watch MJ. so I can only speak from what other people say.
Starting point is 00:29:12 He was amazing and all that thing. So I don't think I'm really qualified to answer the question. Okay, Kobe LeBron. Kobe LeBron. I always like LeBron over Kobe, to be honest. I feel like just the amount of things that he can do on the court. But obviously, Kobe, just a killer mentality. It's a different vibe, but I like LeBron.
Starting point is 00:29:31 So you say you're a Netflix guide, so what's your biggest streaming recommendation to anybody? Oh, Netflix. I haven't been watching anything really recently. I like All-American, but they're not on that. Are you like a documentary guy or what do you go for usually? Mini-series? I've been a rom-com guy.
Starting point is 00:29:53 Oh, wow. Look at that. I love when we get one of these guys. What was your favorite? I like Hitch. All right, it's a good one. Hitch, he speaks French, he plays basketball. Look at him.
Starting point is 00:30:04 There's some commonalities there. He's a Renaissance man. One of my favorite questions that I stole from a friend of mine, RJ Ochoa, is, so let's pretend next year you're playing Madden 22, and whoever you're playing against has taken the team that you're on, whoever ends up drafting you. So if when you're playing that game, you accidentally throw an interception to yourself,
Starting point is 00:30:26 are you going to be the competitor and tackle yourself? Are you going to give DigitalU a little shine and let them score? No, I'm definitely tackling myself. Oh, look at that. I'm finding more and more guys. I'd say it's probably about 70-30 say they're going to let their guy score. No, I'm a hit-sticking myself. You're going to hit-stick yourself. Wow.
Starting point is 00:30:44 Yeah, we don't do that. If it wasn't football, what would your profession be? I know your major is something that I hadn't, I don't think I've ever seen a football player have before. Yeah. Product design. So what would you be doing if it wasn't football? Honestly, I don't know. It's like product design is like Nike? It kind of depends.
Starting point is 00:30:59 It's a little bit of like a little bit of mechanical engineering. Also working with like on the marketing side, dealing with like, user, consumers, that type of deal, identifying target market audience. It's kind of smart if you think about it in sports. Yes, I think, to be honest, yeah, I think going to Stanford but also playing sports, I think that the network that I have now, especially becoming a professional athlete, like it'll give me a lot of leeway to kind of interact and contact a lot of different people.
Starting point is 00:31:27 So honestly, I don't really know what I want to do, but I know that, like, given this platform, I really want to help people. I don't know exactly how, but growing up, I didn't have. have too much. So I feel like, you know, it's only right for me now having the success. I mean, there's nothing really, I mean, like I've had success, you know, and that's not really what's going to do it, right, as far as making you feel a certain way. So I feel like finding a way to help people out, whether it's people that look like me, whether it's kids that grow up, impoverished, or don't really have much. I think I would end up doing something in that realm.
Starting point is 00:32:00 Greatest strength, greatest weakness? As a player? As a person. As a person, my greatest strength. I think my greatest strength is my greatest weakness. I'm a little stubborn. It's a double-edged sword. Yeah, I'm a little stubborn. But I think it's kind of helped me because I go a little harder than I should or something like that.
Starting point is 00:32:26 But sometimes I probably need to pull back. Probably a little stubborn. Yeah. I felt that answer. How do you want people to remember you outside of football? Yeah, again, I think just somebody, you know, one, stood for something, two, was willing to help a lot of people. Imagine an Olympics where doping is not only legal, but encouraged. It's the enhanced games.
Starting point is 00:32:53 Some call it grotesque. Others say it's unleashing human potential. Either way, the podcast's Superhuman documented it all, embedded in the games and with the athletes for a full year. Within probably 10 days, I'd put on 10 pounds. I was having trouble stopping the muscle growth. Listen to Superhuman on the IHard Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. What's up, fam? It's Isaiah Thomas.
Starting point is 00:33:19 And I'm C.J. Toledano, and our podcast Point Game is about defining the odds. Like LeBron heading into the playoffs without Luca and Austin Reed. And finding ways to win no matter what. He's the smartest player to ever play the game. His IQ is at a level that we've never seen before. knows. Without Luca and Austin Reeves, I got to manipulate the game. We get a player's perspective
Starting point is 00:33:40 on the challenges of the playoffs. I think Joker's going to be exhausted this series because when they don't have Rudy in the lineup, he has to really guard guys like Nas Reed. He has to guard Julius Randall. And then he has to give us everything he gives us on the night-to-night bases on offense.
Starting point is 00:33:55 And when IT's friends stop by, like Quentin Richardson, we dive into some playoff history too. Steve Nass would get that thing. That man, hell get the flying. He running up the court, licking his fingers, why he got the ball. Like, after you go through a training camp with that, Isaiah, you figure it out real quick. Oh, yeah. Get your ass up and down the court, and you're going to get the ball.
Starting point is 00:34:16 So listen to Point Game on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hey, I'm Jared Adano. You might know me as that loud guy who yells out, help on the internet. Help! Somebody! But there's so much more to me than that. I'm an actor. I'm a comedian.
Starting point is 00:34:32 And recently, I've become... Quite the helper myself. And on my new podcast, Hope from a Hippocrite, I'll be changing lives, helping people in need with my sage advice and thoughtful solutions.
Starting point is 00:34:45 Sike, I'm a comedian. I'm not qualified to give good advice. Join me and my comedian friends as we riff, rant, recommend some of the most legally dubious advice known to man. If I'm calling you,
Starting point is 00:34:57 even if you're on your phone, let it ring twice. One ring is too scary. Oh, cream of chicken, Hey, cream. Cream and chicken suit. This is Help from a Hypocrite, the worst advice from the dumbest people you know. Listen to Help from Hypocrite as part of the Mike Pulturra podcast network available on the IHartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Starting point is 00:35:20 The story I've told myself about love or relationships can then shake my behavior, and that can lead me to sabotage the possibility of connection. This Mental Health Awareness Month, tune into the podcast deeply well with Debbie Brown and explore the journey of healing, self-discovery, and returning to yourself. We explore higher consciousness, emotional well-being, and the practices that help you find clarity, peace, and self-mastery in a world that can feel overwhelming. The world is becoming lonelier. We're not becoming more social and connected. We're becoming more individualized, but we actually meet people in.
Starting point is 00:36:02 connection. If you've been searching for a soft place to land while doing the work to become whole, this podcast is for you to hear more. Listen to deeply well with Debbie Brown from the Black Effect Podcast Network on the Iheart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast. And that's kind of the big thing for me, especially as I'm getting older, that's seeming like that's the path to go on, to be honest. And again, it's like everybody moves at their own pace, but after having success on a couple different levels, you start to realize what really matters.
Starting point is 00:36:41 So I think just having a positive impact on people. When did you know you were special at this particular sport? Let me see. I think I had a couple moments. I think in high school, like my sophomore year, played in South Lake Carroll, Cowboy Stadium. First game playing, cornerback, went off, had a pick, had a touchdown. I was like, hmm.
Starting point is 00:37:03 Feel good in that building, huh? Yeah, well, I always felt like I was super good. Like, my brothers would tell you, like, I always grew up talking trashed to him. Like, I'm going to be a freshman on varsity. I'm going to beat number one corner in the nation. I'm going to be. So I always had that kind of mentality of just overachieving. But obviously, as it starts getting closer and you kind of start knocking down those milestones,
Starting point is 00:37:24 you get your first offer, you get the third offer, the 10th offer. then you kind of start to see it, you know, all your dreams kind of realize themselves. I definitely had a sense of like, yeah, I can really do some damage. You're stubborn and you know you're good. Are you coachable? Of course, yeah. I think, you know, I'm stubborn with myself, but when it comes to, you know, coaching, I'm definitely willing to accept coaching, especially, you know, I never had any problems with my DB coach, my head coach or anything like that. So I think there's a, there's a balance between being stubborn and kind of wanting to do things your own way and also understanding that it's a team sport and you know you have to buy in you know completely buy in and do what's best for the team as well
Starting point is 00:38:08 favorite coach and why uh coach king is my favorite coach why yeah because um he doesn't baby you like he'll give it to you how it is um you know i had a couple games where i just wasn't performing at the level that i'm supposed to and you know he's all in my grill like giving it to me and And a lot of coaches, especially now with where we are, today's environment is a little softer. So to have that kind of like gritty, hard-nosed kind of approach, that was really appreciated by me. Paulson Adibo is a cornerback from Stanford, a local kid. And somebody who realistically with as thin as the Cowboys are, cornerback could end up with a star on his helmet. And Paulson, we appreciate your man.
Starting point is 00:38:49 I think you're going to do very well. Thank you so much. Thanks for having. Did you know Amazon provides ways of working that fit your lifestyle? They know you value your time outside of work, juggling family, school, friends, or other activities. That's why they offer a variety of shifts that work for you. There are full-time, part-time, and even temporary opportunities that can work with your schedule, with great starting pay and sign-on bonuses.
Starting point is 00:39:13 If you want a career that fits and adapts to your lifestyle, head to Amazon.com slash apply. Amazon is a proud equal opportunity employer. What grows in the forest? Trees? Sure. Know what else grows in the forest? Our imagination, our sense of wonder, and our family bonds grow too. Because when we disconnect from this
Starting point is 00:39:35 and connect with this, we reconnect with each other. The forest is closer than you think. Find a forest near you and start exploring at Discovertheforest.org. Brought to you by the United States. States Forest Service and the Ad Council. Look through your children's eyes to see the true magic of a forest.
Starting point is 00:39:58 It's a storybook world for them. You look and see a tree. They see the wrinkled face of a wizard with arms outstretched to the sky. They see treasure and pebbles. They see a windy path that could lead to adventure. And they see you. Their fearless guide through this fascinating world. Find a forest near you and start exploring at Discovertheforest.org.
Starting point is 00:40:20 brought to you by the United States Forest Service and the Ad Council. Joining us now is TCU Defensive Back, Trayvon Merrig. He is the recipient of the 2020 Jim Thorpe Award, named two seven All-American teams, just an all-around stud. And he is out here training at Exos in Frisco, and we are glad to be joined with him today. Trayvon, how you doing? I'm good, man. How are you doing?
Starting point is 00:40:43 I'm doing good. I'm curious. We were here talking about the COVID scare and everything else and how different everything's been before we got started here. A lot of guys chose to opt out. A few of them you're training with here. Why did you decide to play this season? Really, I just did it from my family and my teammates. Coming into this season, we weren't expecting to play a game
Starting point is 00:41:04 or having a season or anything like that. So we just continued to push forward. And I did it from my mom, my teammates. And we were fortunate to go out there and have a season. So I think we put on a show. What did this season? teach you about adversity, pliability, adaptability.
Starting point is 00:41:22 Definitely just, you know, pushing through whatever, you know, not knowing a lot of things this year, what was going on. It just kept us on our toes and kept us hungry for more wanting to play games and, you know, try to go to a playoff game, but,
Starting point is 00:41:37 you know, just taught us to push through adversity and, you know, lean on one another. You know, I think it's well known at this point. I'm sure you've heard it. The cliches about the, the Big 12. Nobody plays defense in the Big 12.
Starting point is 00:41:50 It's all offense. It's the Kingsbury and the Lincoln Riley style of offenses over there. One of the teams that does play defense a little bit is TCU. Last couple of years, Jeff Gladney, Ross Blacklock, yourself, Ardarius Washington, a lot of really good players on that defense. Do you think you're better prepared for what the NFL is going to have to offer going up against these Lincoln Riley-type teams and these Texas tech offenses? Do you think you're prepared for where the NFL's going because you play in the Big 12th?
Starting point is 00:42:16 Definitely. I think, you know, just TCU in general, their coaching staff, Coach P, Coach Gonzalez, they did a good job of just, you know, preparing us for whatever it may be. I think they, the way they coach is unmatched. I've said that before, and just the way they handle things on the field, they get you ready for anything, whether it be certain teams, certain formations. It could be whatever, but they always make sure you're ready. And I feel like they've got me ready, and I can understand a lot of things that
Starting point is 00:42:46 maybe if I didn't go to TCU, I wouldn't be able to. You know, one of the challenges we saw with so many teams this year, as we were speaking to it earlier, the adaptability and the pliability, you guys are so used to being in a group setting, so used to being in the locker room and working out together. You were able to play this season and obviously saw the shutdowns and the COVID testing and doing these interviews virtually. We're probably going to see a little bit more of that heading into this season. What was the greatest thing you learned about yourself and the way you approach your game, this profession through all of that? I think, you know, one thing I've provided myself on was just being a leader through this time,
Starting point is 00:43:23 you know, trying to get my guys wherever they needed to be, wherever, you know, seem fit. I just tried to be a vocal leader and let them know, like, we're going to get through this, you know, we're going to make it, and we're going to play games and have fun no matter the outcome. And you were a team captain for every single game. Yeah. What does that mean to you? What goes into being the team captain? It was an honor.
Starting point is 00:43:43 You know, Coach P just goes in and picks four guys that he thinks. things are, you know, like you said, great leaders on and off the field. So I was really blessed and fortunate to be picked as one. You know, it was me, Walo, Tay Barber, and Max Duggan. So all of those guys, you know, are great leaders, great teammates. Okay, but I do have to ask you, how hard was it to, I think it was a little bit easier for the NFL athlete, right? Some of them have their families, you're getting paid to approach this. You're in college. You know, you're not going to get to do this thing again. How hard was it to be responsible on campus and still recognize that this is the last year?
Starting point is 00:44:25 I mean, look, I went to college. I went to the University of Texas. It was the best four years of my life. But how were you able to balance that while also being responsible and to your point, making sure you guys had a season? I would say just like leaning on people, leaning on my mom, my family, my teammates, my coaches, just getting advice from them or whatever it may be. just leaning on other people for advice and just kind of not doing it alone by myself.
Starting point is 00:44:52 And so it wasn't that hard for you to stay out of the frame? It was definitely a little hard at the beginning, but as, you know, time went on, we started picking up on things and just learning, you know, the new protocols and swings of things. So I think as the time went on, we learned, you know, like I said, to push forward and persevere. We mentioned you're here in Frisco. So, you know, you're two miles away from the Dallas Cowboys Training Fac. You're a Texas kid. You played here at TCU, too.
Starting point is 00:45:19 Have you thought about what it might be like to wear the star? That'd be a blessing. That'd be so cool. I grew up watching Dallas Cowboys on my life. So, you know, to be, you know, seeing things said about Dallas Cowboys is definitely exciting. So we'll see where that goes, but that would be cool to wear a star. Now, we got you just for a couple more minutes here because we're keeping you from training. But we'll do a couple of get-to-know-you questions.
Starting point is 00:45:45 I know people always like those. So if you weren't pursuing football, what would you be going after for a career? I probably try to be like an analyst, sports reporter kind of thing like that. That's kind of something I want to do after I play football or maybe coach or something like that. See, we're getting you experience right here. That's what you're getting me ready, so prepare me. What's on like your pregame hype list if you're really trying to get in the zone? Probably some young boy.
Starting point is 00:46:09 I know that's probably a little, you know, cliche. Everybody listens to young boy. We got basic trademark here. Hey, but I could throw on a little R&B. All right, right. A little R&B too. Still, one of my favorite answers to this was Randall Cobb, Kiss from a Rose, Seal.
Starting point is 00:46:26 Oh, wow. That's one of his pregame. That's such a bizarre. I remember, I remember it was, uh, he was Devin Osse-Ossie from, uh, UCLA last year. I think his answer was he's like, he doesn't want to listen to anything too aggressive. Oh, really? He didn't want to get too hyped up and out of control. He wanted to kind of be calm and everything.
Starting point is 00:46:44 Yeah, yeah. So let's imagine you're playing Madden 22 here in a couple months, which you'll be on the roster. You'll be on there somewhere. So you're on there, let's say whoever you're playing against takes your team before you can pick them. So you're on offense and you throw and digital Trayvon Merrick intercepts the pass. So are you going to let him score or are you going to be ultra competitive and tackle yourself? I might let him score. Just get a little shine on?
Starting point is 00:47:08 Just to boost the stats up a little bit on the game, you know. Might make it look good. I remember K. Levan Chason said if he was playing against him, himself that he said he'd get 12 sacks that game. He's like, I wouldn't even block the guy. Yeah, no tight end over there. He's like, I want to let myself shine. Oh, yeah, let them rank up the stats for sure.
Starting point is 00:47:25 He's trying to have fun with you, but of course, I'm a hard-nosed reporter. So there's going to be all sorts of questions that are come up for you at Combine. And I imagine they're going to be a little tougher because they're going to be virtual. So it's not like you're in the same room with some of these guys. One of the situations that came up with TCU, obviously, was, you know, during Black Lives Matters, the allegations against Coach P and what was said in the locker room, being a team leader, without getting into the weeds on it, how was that to navigate and keep that group together with heightened emotions?
Starting point is 00:47:57 Because you're going to have that during a football season. A coach is going to fall out of favor with the players. We've seen it happen in the league. What did you learn from that situation to navigate that where you're not isolating teammates? You're trying to understand where they're coming from, but also trying to keep that locker room together. I would say it was definitely hard at first. You know, like you said, emotions were raised, everything like that.
Starting point is 00:48:21 But, you know, we kind of came together as a team, came together as a senior leadership council many times and just talked about the issue. And kind of, we just kind of came out with, we know where Coach P's hard at. We know what kind of guy he is. You know, was he wrong, yes. Not taking that away.
Starting point is 00:48:40 But I know the kind of person he is. I know, I know, you know, you know what he's about. I know how much he's invested in all of us. So for that to happen and for his reputation to go down the drain, I just didn't think it was, you know, the right time. So we met as a team, you know, we handled it and, you know, just left it in the past. Some, you know, we're going to remember. We're not going to forget, but we moved on as a team and continue to play this season.
Starting point is 00:49:04 How hard is that as a young man, though, that's getting ready to go off to the draft. I think a lot of guys worry about, well, if you say the wrong thing or you rattled this coach, how's that going to affect me in the draft? And you're talking to a guy who's been in the league forever or has contacts to the league forever and has been a head coach. How hard was that to go to a man and say, listen, as a locker, and we feel like you're wrong, but this is our moment to give you a teachable moment,
Starting point is 00:49:27 very similar to things that you've done for us as a coach. Definitely tough. But like I said, I think it just comes down to being an honest and, you know, good person, genuine person, you know, because we're all learning. And it's not just, you know, one side or the other. you know, everybody's learning every day. So that's kind of the approach we took towards him was like, you know, we understand you
Starting point is 00:49:48 messed up. But, you know, we're all learning. We're going to get you, you know, back on your feet and try to play a good season. One more for you because you do seem like you have a real level head on you. And like I said, you're going to get far harder questions than that one. But I wanted to get you warmed up, you know, being the reporter that I am. Bobby wants to ask you some of these fun questions and I love them. But what do you bring to a locker room?
Starting point is 00:50:10 You're not going to be able to get into a room, shake a lot of these guys' hands. And I think a lot can be said about you've got this energy and this light about you that I think would serve you well if you had scouts and GMs in the room. Since you can't do that, what are you going to convey to them virtually about what they're getting from you in their locker room? Probably just, you know, like you said, just a level-minded kind of player, just not real too big into the hype, too big into social media, just wanted to get down and work and play for some.
Starting point is 00:50:40 one bigger than itself. I play for my mom, my family, my teammates, you know, and just being an honest, genuine person. That's kind of what I pride myself on is just being a good person to whoever it may be. Well, I think you're likely to hear the name Trayvon Merrig on Thursday night of the draft because he is for sure in that first round conversation. And you can follow him on social media, both Twitter and Instagram, are at the real underscore Tray 7. Trayvon, thanks so much for joining us. Thank you for having me. It's been a blessed. us now out here at Exos in Frisco is Mississippi
Starting point is 00:51:14 State running back, Kylin Hill. You can follow them on Twitter at H underscore Kylan and K-Y-L-I-N. K-L-N. K-L-I-N. K-L-I-N. K-L-I-N-K-L-N. I'm doing pretty good. Just blessed to be here right now. Yes, sir. Now, I know you just came out of Senior Bowl.
Starting point is 00:51:30 It was a, I know, a big week for you, a good week for you. A lot of people, there's that one clip going around social media that was going all viral. You just locking up everybody in Pass Pro, looking good. How was that experience, just in general, the Senior Bowl, and talk about how you think it benefited you, especially in a time where this, you know, we're not going to have the combine the normal way that we would. How do you think it was beneficial to you? Yeah, like you said, with the combine, I feel like we got a lot of benefit through it, you know, especially one-on-one with the coaches, learning an experience, you know, preparing us for the next step that most guys won't have the opportunity to experience also.
Starting point is 00:52:04 So I'm extremely blessed to be in that situation and solve my skills in front of a lot of coaches. You debated opting out last year, decided to finish up at Mississippi State, Mike Leach taking over the head coach, and then opted out at three games. Why? Really, basically, a lot during the flag situation, with my family being too harassed over the situation. So it were really a family decision also. For fans that aren't familiar with the flag situation, walk them through that.
Starting point is 00:52:34 Basically, Mississippi is known for having a Confederate flag over our heads for a generation. even beyond my generation. So me and a couple guys and coaches and stuff, we got together as a family and just came together and just finally thought it was time for it to come down. How hard was that on your family? And was that kind of your first foray into seeing how tough it can be out there
Starting point is 00:52:58 when you put yourself in that public eye? Yeah, it was real tough. You know, I had a lot of backlash. Backlash that come to me. Also comes to my family, me being an athlete. I had a lot of the take up on, had it mature very early, but I have no regrets at all. You proud of the outcome? Yeah, of course.
Starting point is 00:53:17 You know, I feel like I did a good deed, so Mississippi, be very proud of me. Do you think that's something that, you know, even though, as you mentioned, it was tough on your family and it was tough on you and it caused some issues, is it still something that you look back on really proudly and fondly and say, you know, I made a real difference? And do you think it's something that NFL teams can look at and go, okay, there's a guy who shows leadership traits, there's a guy who shows leadership traits, there's a guy who. who's comfortable in his own skin and isn't afraid to do what he believes is right. Yeah, you know, what I did, I feel like a lot of younger players under me can look up to what I did. You know, don't be afraid. Don't be afraid of the outcome.
Starting point is 00:53:53 So I wasn't scared at all. You know, sometimes people always ask me, did I regret it? Not at all. I feel like God made no mistake. So I just go by day by day, stay blessed. Do you have any regrets about not that situation specifically, but do you have any regrets about going back to school? I mean, do you just wish you would have,
Starting point is 00:54:10 potentially just stayed in the draft last year or had, you know, decided to opt out of this year once you've gone back and seen the COVID situation. Do you wish you had done anything differently with that process? No, not at all. I came back, you know, the show Scouts that I also kissed the ball, not just a pounding ground running back. So even though I played through games, I feel like in them games I did play, I had 23 catches close to 300 yards. So I did what I could. I love the confidence. Oh, yeah. Go look at the stats. That opener. It was something like 94. catches for, you know, 730.
Starting point is 00:54:42 I mean, it was obscene. So, because of Mississippi State records there. Now, it's interesting. You talked there about showing your different skill set. We talked about how you had looked really good in pass protection at the Senior Bowl and how you already, everybody knew you were a prolific runner at Mississippi State. Then you went back and showed what you could do in the receiving game. There's this chatter a little bit with the game is so pass-heavy now that running backs are
Starting point is 00:55:03 kind of becoming obsolete people seem to think. What would you say in reply to that thought, that the running back positions becoming obsolete and how valuable do you think your skill set is being that you are so multifaceted when teams are looking at they want a different type of back these days? I feel like with me, Jason, me, I'm just, right now I'm just feeling in all the blanks that people said what I can't do. So like I said, it's all my, I was just a ground and power runner and can't catch. I did that. People said I come pass blocks. So same ball, I focus on padd block and to prove that. And, like I said, I'm just trying to fill in all the blinks that all my daughter said I can't do.
Starting point is 00:55:39 And so far, I'm looking very positive. There's a fearlessness about you that stands out to me. Where does that come from? That's just boring in me. That's how my daddy raised me. Like, my dad, I was eight years old. My dad would wake me at 5 o'clock in the morning. We go job.
Starting point is 00:55:51 That just in me and told me, I always attack the game with fears. Be fierce 24-7. I love it. You said one of the guys you stay in touch with is a guy we know pretty well here in Dallas, that press got. Yeah. What's that relationship like and not just football? What has he meant to you as having a guy that's played at Mississippi State who's been in the league? And for that matter, has found himself in the news a lot and how he handles it has always been so graceful.
Starting point is 00:56:21 What does he taught you? With Dak, you know, when you come to Mississippi State, you're Dak, Chris got. Like, I wouldn't take nothing away from a guy, incredible player. Just besides the player, he's an incredible person, you know, what he did, especially just he plays the game. for his mom, rest of the peace to his mom. Tremendous guy, a charitable guy. He always come back and I try my best to work at events. He's just a guy that young kids should look up to just outside of football just as a person. How much would you like to potentially share the backfield with him? I mean, you're here in Friscoe, you're near Cowboys headquarters.
Starting point is 00:56:52 How cool would it be to end up with the Cowboys? It would be a blessing, you know. I feel like Mississippi State fans would go crazy. They'd love it. They're rabid over there. Now, did you get a chance to talk to the Cowboys at Senior Bowl? And if So how did that go? It went very well. We had tremendous talk, you know. It's something I can't say. Sure, of course.
Starting point is 00:57:10 But they just told me I had a great tremendous talent, and I look forward to seeing me in the single ball. I also love that everyone thinks that just because the Cowboys talked to Kylan, who's a running back, that means there's no room for Zeke O'EFLOllard or Terry Pollard. No, I'm good friends with Zeeke. Exactly. That's where I wanted to go. Sometimes I feel like there is a misperception of Zique because he isn't,
Starting point is 00:57:32 he's not consistently as personable as DAC is sometimes, but if you get Zeke away from the media, he's actually a great guy. So what's been your takeaway? Because even with like Tony Pollard and some of those guys, you know, his former coach, Gary Brown, would tell me, you know, he'd be there at the, you know, dinners at Gary's house and how much he brought the guys up.
Starting point is 00:57:57 And even when he wasn't playing, encouraging guys to go out there and be their best, what have you taken away from a guy like, Ezekiel, especially because he's such good friends with Dak. I would imagine that by extension, you get some of that friendship. Yeah, man, Zeke, we've been traded numbers, you know, communicate. You know, it basically just, guys like him, Ava Camara, they just basically told me just stay grinding.
Starting point is 00:58:19 The process to go by Fas, you know, in the blink of an eye, it's going to be drafted. You know, like, they just kept it real with me real blunt. You know, they told me to work my butt off and just take care of everything. Everything will happen for itself. I love that you're in touch with Alvin Camara. because, you know, Sean Peyton, New Orleans Saints,
Starting point is 00:58:34 loves to say that he stood on the table and banged his fist for Alvin. Alvin obviously was a guy that was a little bit overlooked. You talk about filling in the blanks and not wanting to be pigeonholed in one particular area, and he has certainly shown you that with his game. What has Alvin taught you about being more of a multi-dimensional running back, especially in today's game and the way that that position's been undervalued? Yeah, I feel like Alvin changed the game from running back.
Starting point is 00:58:59 It's like being straight up, you know, Alvin, you know, know he can be a guy. He can go between the holes and hit you, or he can line up wide and just hit you for 80 yards. He just basically changed the game for running backs. What it is today? Put running back on the market. You know, tremendous guy, tremendous talent. What did you think of a six touchdown game on Christmas? Oh, he was going federal. I was counting him every time. He counted him. You know, he got in the end zone. He was counting out, count them right with him.
Starting point is 00:59:25 You were sitting there really cheering on that they give him that number six. Yeah, we got the same agent and everything, you know. Yeah. I feel like he was doing it for the running back. Yeah, he was going in for the running back. He was doing it for the culture. That's what he was all about. Now, you mentioned filling in all the blanks.
Starting point is 00:59:40 What is it you think is the most outstanding question you think teams are going to want to know about you? Since you are trying to answer as many questions you can, what do you think is remaining for you to sell teams on? Basically, I don't know, so I just wait for the next challenge. Whatever rep, whatever dread they want me to do, I'm just trying to master it. Now, let's do some get-to-know-you stuff. I do want to ask him one other thing. I love this notion that your dad was getting you up at such a young age to run at 5 in the morning because, like I said, I'm sitting here and we talked to a lot of guys. I've talked to a lot of guys over the years, but there is this fearlessness about you and there is also this, you seem very intentional.
Starting point is 01:00:16 Are you into certain books? Are there certain guys that you, or documentaries that you're into? Like, where else do you get some of your inspiration? Basically, being from Mississippi, you know, underrated all my life, so it's a few to the fire. Love it. Now, if you weren't, as we asked some of these, get to know your questions, if you weren't pursuing football, what would you be going after? You're a psychology major, right? Yeah, I'll be what you're doing.
Starting point is 01:00:40 I love it. There you go. All right. Well, and I want to ask you about that, too, because I do think that if you're into psychology, it helps you a lot as a reporter. I highly recommend the book that I've been reading is The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Green. It's Bible thick, but it really helps you understand people and their motivations. And so I think if you obviously pursue psychology, you're interested in that stuff. We've watched Calvin, I mean, Cameron Jordan and Mark Ingram do their podcast during the season.
Starting point is 01:01:11 Is that something you'd be interested in doing? Because we've seen so many players that are able to sort of start writing their media career early. Could you see yourself doing that? And who would be your ideal co-host? I'd see myself doing it. I feel I communicate very well. Co-host-wise, I don't know. It can be, let's do a current player?
Starting point is 01:01:30 and a pass player. Or somebody you're training with, maybe. Yeah, you got here. Is there anybody here who'd be real dynamic with you here that you're training with? I had to say Jay Adams. There you go. Jay Adams and Jamar Chase. Oh, Jamar, there you go.
Starting point is 01:01:44 Yeah. People think Jamar Kwib, Jamar ain't Clyde. Who is your ideal interview? Like, for us, we got T.O. Yeah. I mean, I grew up the biggest T. So did he. I still have a T.O. jersey.
Starting point is 01:01:54 That was, like, that was for us, like, our biggest get on this show. And we've interviewed a lot of people. Yeah. But Tio was huge for us because I had so many questions. Who's your one person that you would absolutely have to book on your podcast? In today's NFL right now? Just it could be anybody. Football or otherwise.
Starting point is 01:02:12 Oh, that's a good one. I had to say I had to go for today. I had to go with my former teammate Jonathan Abel. Oh, there you go. John is one of, I remember I interviewed Jonathan over at MJP two years ago. And it was the, it was the funniest thing. I remember I was talking to it. Everybody you ask about like, you know,
Starting point is 01:02:30 hey, what do you think about the Dallas area? Because they're here training. It's like, what do you think about it? It's like, oh, it'd be great to play for the Cowboys. When I asked him, what do you think about playing for the Cowboys? He's like, well, I really like the schools out here. You know, I got a kid. And so, like, you know, it'd be a good place to raise it.
Starting point is 01:02:43 Like, he didn't have anything to say about football. It was all about like, oh, yeah, you know, the school systems are good over here, and there's a lot of parks. He's approaching like a job when he's going to sign with Amazon. Great school district for the kids. I remember Dane Bruegler from the Athletics said that teammate, and you may be able to speak to this. He said teammates used to kind of joke with him that he was the grandpa on the team.
Starting point is 01:03:02 Yeah. He acted like he was 40 years old almost. John, a great teammate, you know, our energy guy for sure. Oh, yeah. Yeah, an enforcer. Yeah, for sure, for sure. That's a guy who's got some attitude. Now, when you look at in terms of like, are you a Madden guy?
Starting point is 01:03:17 You play? Yeah. All right. So next year you'll be in the game. If somebody happened to grab the team that you play on before you could get to it, and you've digitally used out this crease where he's about to go for 80. yards. Are you tackling yourself or are you going to let yourself get some shine? Let myself get to shine. You're just getting scored. I don't care what my overall is. I'm putting myself
Starting point is 01:03:36 in the game as to the starter point bank period. Just go stack it. You're going to go for the seven touchdowns. You're going to pass Alvin. Oh, eight. And where's the, where's the tat over there? The eight. I got it right here. Say yeah, he's got the eight. I love that. That's perfect. Now, when it comes to, would you rather, this is one of the things that I always like to ask people, would you rather live without music for the rest of your life or TV movies streaming service type things? TV movies. You'd rather keep the music? Yeah.
Starting point is 01:04:02 What's, what's like the big pregame hype song? I don't know. Who's the pregame hype artist? Not a particular song. Who's like, what's an artist we're definitely going to hear your place? Chicago rappers, so I got to go a little dirt. Oh, okay. All right, not like old school Chicago.
Starting point is 01:04:16 I thought he was going to say literally Chicago. I was like, oh my gosh, she's an 80s savant. I've now become your biggest advocate. I'm still going to be one of your big advocate. But she was expecting Peter Satera. I was so excited. I was like, what? Have you watched the YouTube channel where it's the young guys that listen to the 80s music and the throwbacks?
Starting point is 01:04:37 And they're like, they're like teenagers, they've never heard it before. They're like, oh man. It's like Phil Collins, like in the air and that thing. Man, that hits. See, that's one of my favorite YouTube channels. On the podcast, you can do that. Like, Kylin reacts to 70s music. That's a good.
Starting point is 01:04:52 We can see where you'd fall down on that. Now, because you are, we've talked about such a outspoken guy and somebody who cares a lot about how things go off the field, how would you like people to remember you outside of the game of football? Just a guy who didn't back down for anything. You know, a guy that spoke his mind. You know, a guy that's a truthful about a lot of things. Some people may not like it, but that's how I approach the game. Very hard working guy.
Starting point is 01:05:17 Do you think it's important then that you go to a locker room that lets you be you? In other words, I cover a lot of teams. teams where the coaches themselves say we just want our guys to be our guys. And then there's other locker rooms where sort of toe the line. Where do you, where would you, I feel like I've got an idea of it, but what would be most natural for you? I mean, I get it. Look, wherever you get the call is where you ball.
Starting point is 01:05:41 But, you know, a locker room with a lot of fun guys in there. It'll be, it'll be amazing. But then again, I know that it's a business also. So if you want to go in a locker room, it's all serious and everything. I'm going to do my job. This is my job also. I see him in New Orleans. I feel like he's got like a whole New Orleans vibe.
Starting point is 01:05:59 He'd be perfect there. Kylin Hill, you can follow him on Twitter and look for that podcast where he reacts to Peter Satera, Chicago, Queen, all the 70s music. You're going to love the way he hits those power ballots, Kyle. I'm telling you. He's great. He's smooth. Yeah. You can follow Kylin on Twitter at H underscore Kylan.
Starting point is 01:06:16 Yes. Kylin, we appreciate you, man. No problem, man. Thank you all. All right. So like I said, I love getting to know these guys. I hope you learned as much as we learned from them. And we'll continue to learn about them in the coming weeks.
Starting point is 01:06:27 We're trying to get ahead of this before we start seeing the news articles come out and more and more teams start talking about their interests. We're sort of getting to know them in the early stages, which is what I love. I love this part. It's good. They're still enthusiasm from them. They haven't been over interviewed yet. They're excited.
Starting point is 01:06:44 It's like last year when we saw Des Bryant working out. You saw all the draft picks like just, you know, going Gaga watching that. You see that with like a Gerald McCoy being up here or somebody else to see them just kind of like stare. and oh my goodness look it's Cheryl McQuay so yeah no ego yet next episode we've got some good interviews for you we're going to be talking with Peyton Turner from Houston who has the wingspan of a car with its doors open and then we'll also be talking to William Bradley King or BK the Baylor Defense of End and then our friend Brandon Tucker from trench warfare training about all these guys and then also about some of the Cowboys players that he's been training where Tristan Hills at with his
Starting point is 01:07:19 recovery you know how Neville Gallimore's progressing so lots of good information on that next episode. I need to learn something. If you love to be remembered as the person who gives the best birthday gifts, I'm here to tell you that 1800flowers.com is your ultimate birthday gifting destination. 1-800 flowers has thoughtful and artfully created options that are guaranteed to deliver the best birthday surprise. Shop thousands of unique gifts at 1-800flowers.com for exclusive offers and great values. To order today, visit 1 800 flowers.com slash tune in.
Starting point is 01:08:00 That's 1,800flowers.com slash tune in. Another podcast from some SNL late night comedy guy, not quite. Unhumor me with Robert Smygel and friends. Me and hilarious guests
Starting point is 01:08:11 from Bob Odenkirk to David Letterman help make you funnier. This week, my guest, SNL's Mikey Day and head writer, Streeter Seidel, help an a cappella band
Starting point is 01:08:20 with their between songs banter. Where does your group perform? We do some retirement homes. Those people are starving for banter. and humor me with Robert Smigel and Friends on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. What's up, fam? It's Isaiah Thomas.
Starting point is 01:08:35 And I'm C.J. Toledano. It's our favorite time of the year on our podcast point game, the playoffs. We're digging into the biggest surprises of the season, and I'm looking back on some of my greatest playoff moments. If we didn't talk ever again, I was harmed. You just understood. That's how personal it got. Wow. Then after
Starting point is 01:08:51 that game seven, Marquis' keep coming to him. He's like, you know I love you, dog. You know, it's all love. This was just playoffs. This was just basketball. So listen to Point Game on the I Heart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast. If you're watching the latest season of the Real Housewives of Atlanta, you already know there's a lot to break down. Gorsha accusing Kelly of sleeping with a merry man. They hold K. Michelle back from fighting Drew. Pinky has financial issues. On the podcast, Reality with the King, I, Carlos King, recap the biggest moments from your favorite reality shows, including
Starting point is 01:09:26 the Real House Wise franchise, the drama, the alliances, and the T, everybody's talking about. To hear this and more, listen to Reality with the King on the IHard Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast. I'm Joey Dardano, and on my new podcast, Hope from a Hypocrite, I'll be changing lives, helping people in need with thoughtful solutions. Sike, I'm a comedian. I'm not qualified to give good advice. Join me and my comedian friends as we riff, rant, and recommend some of the most. most legally dubious advice known to me.
Starting point is 01:10:00 This is Help from a Hypocrite, the worst advice from the dumbest people you know. Listen to Help from Hypocrite Wednesdays on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. This is an IHeart podcast. Guaranteed human.

There aren't comments yet for this episode. Click on any sentence in the transcript to leave a comment.