After a National team practice at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl, Pro Player Insiders caught up with the 5-foot-9 running back, Remound Wright, from Stanford. Wright played in a crowded backfield at “The Farm” that included Heisman trophy finalist Christian McCaffery but yet still led the team with 13 rushing touchdowns. Read on to find out more about Remound Wright.
What were your expectations coming into this week of practice ?
I knew there would be scouts around. It would be an opportunity to put my skill-set on showcase. But it’s even exceeded my expectations. I’m getting coached by Priest Holmes and Ray Rice — two running backs who I’ve looked up to since they’ve been playing in the league. I’ve actually fashioned my game after Ray Rice. So it’s an honor to be coached by him.
Your size is comparable to his. What have you learned from Rice?
So far we’ve been focusing on techniques. It’s hard to coach a running back once we’ve gotten the ball because it’s mostly about instincts. We’ve concentrated on behind the line of scrimmage type of stuff like keeping my pad level low and making sure that my footwork is right. He’s been really helpful with that.
Skills that you’re working on to improve for the next level?
I’m really working on my long distance speed. That’s one area that I can improve a lot. But things like quickness, acceleration, decisiveness, hitting the hole, and vision. I’m trying to work on everything.
What are some of life’s lessons that you’ve learned while in college?
I’ve definitely learned that there is something to be learned from everyone, everyone you encounter. Around Stanford, there’s a lot of smart people who are doing cool things. If you stop to ask people about life, especially those who are older than you and may have more life experience than you, there’s not one person who couldn’t give me some wisdom or something I can learn from.
What has been your favorite part of college experience?
My favorite part of the college experience is that I’m just very glad I chose to go to Stanford University because they create well-rounded individuals. They’re just as dedicated to athletics as they are to academics. You are surrounded by some of the smartest, most intelligent people in the world. When you surround yourself with good people, you’re going to become like those people. That’s definitely what Stanford has allowed me to do.
Who or what has been the biggest influence on your life?
My father, without a doubt. My father is the greatest man that I know. I’d love to be just like him in so many ways. He’s helped me stay on the right path my whole life. He taught me discipline and hard work. My father is a great man.
Has there been any event that occurred that has had a huge impact on you?
I would say it’s more than just one event. My dad pushed me to play all sports. I never wanted to play them when I was little. Once I found some success in them, I started to really enjoy playing them. If it wasn’t for having a father in my life and him pushing me — he knew what was best for me even if I didn’t know what was good for me — I wouldn’t be where I am today.
What do you dislike the most out of society?
In American society specifically, it really bothers me how African American lives are not valued. Especially how black males are not valued, there’s no justice for us out here. You know of Tamir Rice, Trayvon Martin, you know Freddie Gray. All those men way heavily on my heart.
What goals do you have outside of football?
One day, I hope to own my own business. I really enjoy writing, I have a passion for it. Over the past couple of years, I’ve really tried to develop that skill. I want to write books, something that will influence the world in a positive way.
If there was just one reason a team decides to draft you, just one, what would it be?
The top reason is that I’m a good person. Which means that I will be a good fit in the locker room. There will be no worries about me off the field. I’m going to work hard every day and be the best player I can be and reach my potential as a football player.
Lasting impression on this world?
That’s a heavy question. I’ve never been asked that before. I have to take time to think about that because it’s important.
You can die at any moment. What would you want people to say about you if that so happens?
That Remound Wright had a positive impact on the world. He was an intelligent man who made the world a better place. If I’m not the one to change the world, I hope that I’m able to spark the mind that is able to change the world.
