Lonnie Ballentine is a safety with NFL size and athleticism. He stands at 6 feet 3 inches and weighs 220 pounds. This past season at Memphis University, Ballentine posted 58 tackles from his safety spot and was a shining star on a team that posted a disappointing 3-9 record.
All-Conference USA player at Memphis
Having played high school football in Memphis, Ballentine chose to stay home and play for the hometown Tigers. In his Junior season, he led his teams secondary in total tackles with 66 and was 4th overall on the team.
Those efforts earned him honorable mention in the Conference USA. After 4 seasons at Memphis Ballentine is ready to move on to the next stage of his career. Ballentine has been invited to the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl where he will compete with 325 other top draft-eligible seniors from schools all around the country, varying from major conferences to smaller schools.
Ballentine has shown tremendous work ethic in the past as he was awarded the Tiger award at Memphis for his strength and conditioning work during spring drills. Pro Player Insiders had a chance to interview the hard working safety to talk about the NFLPA game.
PPI: What is your nickname?
Lonnie Ballentine: Tre, I actually got Tre because I am Lonnie Ballentine the third and normally the third (of anything) is tre so that is how I got it.
PPI: Who is your NFL hero?
LB: Sean Taylor, God rest his soul. He was a great player in my eyes and watched him a lot.
PPI: What inspired you to come out for the NFLPA bowl this week?
LB: I know it is an upcoming game and I also wanted to come out and showcase some of my talent and raise my (draft) stock on the boards.
PPI: If there was a song that you would come out to what would it be?
LB: Good question, it would have to be “They Don’t Know” by Rich Homie Quan
PPI: What is your biggest contribution going to be in the NFL?
LB: I am going to come in and work hard every day and give it my all and push whoever is in front of me. Whatever the coach needs me to do, I am going to do it.
PPI: You like the weather out here in California?
LB: I am loving it!
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