Interview with Jahleel Addae SS Central Michigan

Funny thing happens when you talk to so many players, you start to get a feel of who are players and who are also students of the game.   Talking with Jahleel the other night I quickly realized he was more than just a talented player. He asked all kinds of questions about the history of his Tampa Bay Buccaneers and understood how the life of a football player has changed even in the past ten years due to social media.    It would not surprise me at all to hear that once his career is over, Jahleel gets into the scouting and front office side of football.

Footballdialogue: What is your official height, weight and speed?

JA: I am 5’10”  202 and run a 4.52 forty.

Footballdialogue: What sports did you play in high school?

JA: Football and soccer

Footballdialogue: What schools besides Central Michigan were options coming out of high school?

JA: I got offers from West Virginia and Iowa State. Actually I had planned on going to West Virginia until the whole Rich Rodriguez situation went down.   I am very blessed it all worked out, as I loved my time at Central Michigan.

Footballdialogue: What are your feelings on playing special teams?

JA: Big on special teams.  Played them in the East-West shrine bowl, and if that is what I need to do to gain trust of my coaches, then I am all for playing special teams.

Footballdialogue: You had a lot of tackles from the safety position, but do you remember your first one?

JA: Yes sir, it was against Hampton in 2010 on a stretch play.

Footballdialogue: If a scout were to ask you for film of your best game, what film would you give him?

JA: Miami of Ohio

Footballdialogue: Where was your favorite place to play on the road?

JA: Virginia Tech and Iowa were pretty wild.  It was extra sweet, as we upset Iowa and their fans were talking tons of smack.

Footballdialogue: Who was the best player you faced while in college?

JA: Two guys come to mind; first, Antonio Brown who is currently with the Steelers, and Tyrod Taylor currently with the Ravens.  Both were special players.

Footballdialogue: What was your best memory of your college career?

JA: Beating Michigan State in 2009 will always be a special thing to me.

Footballdialogue: How was the experience of attending the East-West Shrine Bowl this year?

JA: It was a blessing on so many fronts.   First and foremost going to the hospital and meeting the children.  What a humbling experience, and how great it was to put a smile on their faces.   I always remember when I get stressed about something that those kids are facing so much tougher things; they are a true inspiration.

With regards to playing football, it was great to play with such elite athletes.   I met some big name guys and talked with a lot of scouts and got to do it all in my hometown.

Footballdialogue: Where have you been training in preparation for the draft and upcoming pro days?

JA: Working on everything, my broad and vertical jump along with my forty time.   I have been working at Athletic Edge with Mike Gough.

Footballdialogue: Who was your favorite NFL team growing up?

JA: Huge Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan as a kid and more recently also respect and became a fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers organization.

Footballdialogue: Can we follow you on twitter?

 JA: @Do_oraddae4