Virginia Tech Safety and AstroTurf NFLPA Bowl participant, Eddie Whitely, spoke with Pro Player Insiders about his pursuit of becoming a successful professional football player. The 6’ tall defensive back recalls feeling overwhelmingly honored, when he got word the he was invited to participate in the bowl game.
“[I am] out here with some of the best guys [who are] going to the draft, for [the NFLPA] to pick me as one of the guys, [allows] me to put my name out there to at least get mentioned to be drafted. It’s a blessing. I was very honored that I got in invite to come here [to the NFLPA Astroturf Bowl]”, says Whitely.
Whitley, who will play on the American Team this Saturday, sites the bond with his family as his main source of inspiration. “Both of my parents kept me in the straight and narrow and didn’t let me stray away”, he says.
“For me to repay them, is [my definition of] being successful. I [wouldn’t] want them to put all of this money [into me] and I turn out be a let –down…I also [have] a newborn daughter, who is five-months old—She’s definitely a big part of why I’m playing. Now it’s even better, [she] brings me even more motivation to play.”
Whitley, who had an exceptional first day of practices, is more than ready to make his talents known. When asked about his expectations of the week long experience, Whitely responded that his main goal is to catch the attention of NFL scouts.
“The media [has] talked good about me. Somebody said the scouts can’t be here, but I’m sure they will be looking at the film, and reading the paper…[Playing in this game will provide] word-of-mouth; I didn’t get invited to the Combine, so this is my Combine and my Pro Day”, he says.
Whitney’s football IQ is also an asset that will play major favor in his pursuit of the NFL, as he is adroit in every defensive back position.
“I’ve done it all– free safety, strong safety, both corners, and started games in each position. My understanding of defense gives me a little bit of edge over other players.”
