Eifey Gives a “Who Dey”

“Who Dey” Nation is more then ready for Tyler Eifert to be a playmaker in Paul Brown Stadium.

Eifert is the newest tight end in the Queen City, after having a stellar college football career at the University of Notre Dame. He was recognized as the top college tight end, quite an accomplishment for a 22-year-old. The Bengals selected him in the first round of the 2013 draft.

Theresa Villano of Pro Player Insider’s was able to sit down with Tyler Eifert at the 17th Annual NFLPA Rookie Premiere. Contrary to what some may think, this Notre Dame alumni has character.  Eifert talks candidly about starting football in fifth grade, his parents influence, looking forward to playing with his former teammate (Trevor Robinson), his nicknames and his favorite food from Buffalo Wild Wings. Most importantly, Eifey talks about what Bengal’s fans can look forward to from him at TE and what his first TD dance will look like as a pro.

Pro Player Insiders: Tyler Eifert. Newest Bengal. Can I get a Who Dey?
Tyler Eifert: Who Dey? Who Dey!

PPI: People have said Tyler you don’t show emotion, but you seem like an average dude with emotions. You just said Who Dey with a little spunk.
TE: I have emotions. I have feelings. I don’t show much emotion very often in the media. I just do what I’m supposed to do and get out.

PPI: You’ve been doing what you’re supposed to do. Awesome things. Now you’re about to be a pro. So exciting. I’m sure your family and friends are super excited. What is going to be the hardest thing in your transition?
TE: It won’t be too bad. I’m only three hours from home. I think just getting used to a new city, trying to learn where everything is and learn my way around (will be the hardest transition). I look forward to meeting some of the guys from the team, get to know them,understand how the organization works, and the way things are done.

PPI: You have had a chance to go to rookie camp. What are some of the veteran guys that you’ve met and have they said anything to you? Have they rubbed shoulders and said, “What up man?”
TE: Yeah. I mean they’re all there. They’ve all been cool to me. I’ve met Andy and AJ and Jermaine. They’ve been super cool. One of my teammates from last year is on the Bengals, Trevor Robinson, it’s been nice to have him there too.

PPI: You know rookies do have to buy sheets at training camp and candles and stuff. Are you prepared for buying all the stuff for your veteran players?
TE: Yeah. I mean it’ll be fun. I’m all for the fun. I don’t take offense to it or anything. I’ll pay my dues and next year it’ll be a new rookie.

PPI: Has there been a moment in your childhood where you’re like, “Man I’m good at football. I want to play in the NFL?” 
TE: I don’t think there’s ever been one moment, but I started playing in fifth grade and that was always the dream. Always the goal. So, football’s been around me my whole life. That’s pretty much it.

PPI: Do you have anyone that has really played a huge role in your success so far?
TE: I think my parents have. They’ve taught me everything I know and brought me up, raised me, and prepared me for what’s to come now is the real world.

PPI: Here’s some fun questions. If you could be a super hero, who would it be?
TE: It would be Batman.

PPI: Tyler, I’m sure you have a nickname as well. Childhood nickname that your mom always called you? Current nickname?
TE: I’ve got a couple. Eiffy. Eif. Ty, short for Tyler. Nothing too crazy though.

PPI: Let’s show Bengals nation, Who Dey nation, that you have a little something, something. Do you have a touchdown dance ?
TE: I don’t. Not yet. I’ve always just handed the ball to the ref, but now that you can actually do something. I like to just run around with my hands up, spike the ball. It’ll have to be a surprise. I can’t show you (chuckles).

PPI: Favorite food?
TE: Boneless Buffalo wings from Buffalo Wild Wings.

PPI: Look into the camera and tell Bengals fans what they can expect from you this season.
TE: Bengals fans you can expect me to be moved around a lot, make some plays, be a contributor, and a playmaker on the offense.

For the latest on this new Cincinnati Bengal follow @EiferTy85.

 Follow @Theresa_PPI @PlayerInisders for more under the helmet access.