Recently I was able to conduct an interview with Travis Henry the RB from Tennessee. Travis was named to the 1st team All-SEC team in 2000 and he leaves Tennessee as the school's all-time leading rusher(3,078 yds.). At 5'9", 223 and running 4.41-4.45/40, Henry's draft status has shot up across the boards. He displays the ability to run with speed and power and he's a proven winner. Below is some info on Travis, followed by our interview.
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.jpg) Name: Travis Henry
School: Tennessee
Position: RB
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 223
40 Time: 4.41(Pro Day)
Draft Status: 2nd round projection
My View: Travis is a very gifted young man on the football field. Off the field, he's a man of character and faith. He's got an outstanding future ahead of him in the NFL. He has the ability to run hard between the tackles and he can also bounce it outside and make a big play. He will be able to wear down opposing defenses with his between the tackle running and he's durable enough to take the beating. Look for him to be an immediate contributor early on.
INTERVIEW:
Q: What kind of person will an NFL team be getting when they draft you?
T.H.: They'll get a man of good character, a man of good faith, a leader, and a proven winner. We won two SEC titles and a National Championship while I was at Tennessee, I think that says alot because I conributed to us getting those titles.
Q: What have you heard about your draft status?
T.H.: I heard I could be a 2nd or 3rd rounder, but I don't really pay any attention to that.
Q: What are your plans after your football career is over?
T.H.: I want to finish school and get my degree in psychology. Maybe I'll run my own company, but whatever God has planned for me, that's what I'll do.
Q: What are your three playing strengths?
T.H.: I'd have to say my vision, my ability to run between the tackles, and my ability to break tackles. It takes alot to bring me down.
Q: Do you have any weaknesses in your game that you're looking to improve on?
T.H.: I'm working on becoming a better receiver out of the backfield. I'm also trying to become a better blocker.
Q: Do you feel you're mentally ready for the NFL?
T.H.: I believe I am. Reaching the NFL has always been a dream of mine. I've always been a very strong person mentally and now I'll just apply my mental toughness to the NFL.
Q: Are you physically ready as well?
T.H.: Without a doubt. I have the speed, power, and running style that is a must in today's NFL game. I know I'll have to adjust to the overall speed of the game, but my style is perfect for the NFL.
Q: What are you doing to stay focused with everything going on around you?
T.H.: I just think of what I've been through. At Tennessee I was always fighting with Jamal(Lewis) for playing time. I've had to work extremely hard for everything I've gotten and the NFL is no different.
Q: Do you feel with everyone talking about Deuce, L.T., Barlow, and Bennett, that you've been somewhat of the forgotten man at the RB position?
T.H.: Yes I do. I played in the toughest conference in the country and I've proven myself to be a very durable, tough RB. I think it's obvious that when you look at me on film, I do everything right. I can't really worry about what people say about Deuce or the others. I need to worry about myself. I know I'll be fine. All of that is just a motivator for me.
Q: I know you didn't do any of the physical tests at the combine, but what was it like?
T.H.: It was a great experience. I was able to sit and talk with other players, coaches, and scouts and that really helped me out. I learned alot while I was there.
Q: Have you heard people compare you to Emmitt Smith?
T.H.: (laughing) Yeah. I've heard that. I broke all of Emmitt's high school records in the state of Florida. I think I run better than he does. I just hope I'm blessed with the longevity and health that he's been fortunate enough to have. He's a great back.
Q: Can you make an impact in the NFL right away?
T.H.: Yes I do. I need to come in and learn the team's offensive scheme and I can make an impact very early on. I need to be ready when my opportunity comes, and I need to take full advantage.
Q: What are your goals 5 years from now?
T.H.: In 5 years I want to be one of the best backs in the entire league. I think I'll do it too.
Q: What teams have shown the most interest in you?
T.H.: The Eagles, Bears, and Panthers have been pretty interested, but I've spoken to alot of teams.
Q: What was your favorite team growing up?
T.H.: The Buffalo Bills. Even though they couldn't win the big game, they were always my team. I loved Thurman Thomas.
Q: Would you like to play there now?
T.H.: (laughing) I don't know about that now.
M.G.: Travis, thanks for your time. It was fun. I hope we can do it again!
T.H.: Thanks Matt! I look forward to it.
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