NM – My first question for you, seeing you started your colligate career at Boston College before transferring to Cincinnati in 2018. What led to your decision to transfer back home knowing you’re from Ohio, what drew you back to Cincinnati?
ET- It was the first conversation I had with Coach Fickell. I was looking at schools in the area in wasn’t really decided until I took my visit and saw what was being built. I wanted to be apart of the ground floor and help build a program. The drive and dedication you saw from coaches here, along with the location made it an easy choice. Also location wise, it was great for my family. There’s no better feeling then seeing your family in the stands so that was another selling point as well.
NM- Awesome, I love that answer. How would you say your relationship with the coaching staff here at Cincinnati has helped you develop and get you ready for the next level?
ET- They helped me not only learn the game, but also the keys to being able to apply that at the next level. We went into every game with the mindset that this was our Super Bowl. It didn’t matter the team and we never looked at the records. I think that’s a mindset I can apply everywhere in life. I’m going to prepare me and show up with a plan as well as a winning attitude.
NM- Awesome, that’s a great insight! I know you have been training at Black Sheep Performance in Kenwood. Can you talk about your relationship with Patrick Coyne and how he has helped you get right not only physically, but mentally? I also know you do your YouTube Series called the “Take 5” can you just reflect on that as well for the people who don’t know about your series?
ET- Patrick is an incredible guy. I didn’t know everything Black Sheep had to offer till I started, but as I spent more time there he really opened my eyes on where I needed physical and mental growth. His training is the typical style you’ll find, but that’s why I love it. He offers extremely individualized training and helped make huge improvements while I was preparing for Pro Day. He also has a great staff working with him and I can’t thank him enough for how he’s helped me grow. Now with the “Take 5 Series”, I wanted to help break the ice on the topic of mental health. It’s not this taboo thing everyone views it as and I’m hoping by sharing my own insights, people can learn more about the topic. It also offers life advice and there’s a variety of guests and co-hosts. It’s a great reminder for those watching to also take a second and check in with themselves.
NM- Awesome, yeah I have followed Patrick and Black Sheep for about a year now. I stay pretty active seeing how he works out with NFL players and athletes to help them prepare for their futures. Mental health is a very big topic and I’m very proud to see you speaking out on the topic knowing how tough the topic can be. I’ve checked in and watched some of the episodes on the Take 5. Nobody is ever alone in this society, so speaking out and starting your series with all of your insight has inspired a lot of people. How would you describe the 2020 season with it being a whole different season with Covid-19 happening? What did this season tell you as a player and what should the Bearcat fans be looking to see in the future?
ET- The 2020 season was the true test of what you were building as a team. It was also great reflection on why we actually play the game. There were no fans, no outside factors motivating you to play. You really had to dig deep and see what really motivated you to push yourself. With the team, it was all about trust. Everyone had to stay smart off the field and protect what we were working towards. This was great because it strengthened the the bonds we had. We had nothing else, but each other and I feel moving forward that will only be more apparent. Now in the future, Bearcats fans have a pissed off team who is only more motivated. Every season we raised the bar on what we expected and from here on out, its a high standard. It’s a great feeling knowing you left the program better then when I came in and I can’t wait to see where this program will go.
NM- Awesome, 2020 was a weird and unusual season, but you guys overcame all the odds and adversity. What are you looking to show teams ahead of tomorrows Pro Day?
ET- I’m more than capable of playing at the next level. I have a mix of size and speed that is hard to find. I can play a lot of positions and check off a lot of boxes in what they might be looking for in a roster spot. I’m not nervous because all I have to do is be myself, remember my training and perform things I have done in the past. This isn’t about proving others wrong, this is about showcasing my talent.
NM- Awesome, that’s a great answer. We saw your versatility here at Cincinnati weather it was on special teams or you being a force off the edge to create pressure in the backfield. What’s some ways you have been able to get out and prepare for the draft? I know Covid is making it very difficult still, but what have you think you have improved on the most ahead of next months NFL Draft?
ET- My goal was getting more in touch with my body and working on fluidity in my movement, making every step or move more effective. Black Sheep Performance was perfect because they helped me with all the above from pass rush, coverage and just being more of an athlete. That gave me me training to work towards those goals. Also, mentally it’s been a lot of preparation understanding the game at the next level. I have to be prepared before walking into the film room, so I have spent extra time learning schemes so I can think less on the field.
