Pittsburgh Steelers 2009 NFL 3rd Round Pick Pick Mike Wallace Addresses The Media

by Frank Mineo (DYMS) on Apr 27, 2009 3:13 PM EDT

After the fold there is some of the interview transcribed courtesy of our friends at Steelers Depot.

Did I see somewhere that you expected the Bears to draft you in the first round?

Actually, it was the second round, but, you know, I know you hear a lot of things and that was the discussion. I got a call where they said they were going to pick me with their next pick, but I’m happy to be a Steeler. I’m happy that the Steelers came first.

Why is that, Mike?

Because [they have] a great coach [and a] great organization. They are the most winning team in [the] National Football [League]. I’m just happy to be a part of that. I’m looking forward to coming in and playing my role and learning from two of the greatest receivers in the game.

What did they tell you that role might be?

Just to come in and play a player and stretch the field; get behind the defensive player and modify the game. And I plan to do that every time Coach Tomlin and the rest of the coaches call my number.

Their wide outs do some blocking here. How ready are you for that?

I’m so ready, I’m just looking forward to – it’s a “want-to” [attitude] in blocking. It doesn’t really take a skill. It just takes effort, really, to block. I’m just looking forward to going in and learning from some of the greatest. Hines Ward [is] probably the greatest blocking receiver in the National Football League. That’s great. I just look forward to going in and learning from him.

They’ve been looking for a kick returner here [for a long time]. How good are you at that?

I feel that I can, with the players that they have on this team and my ability to hit the hole and separate, do a lot of good things on kickoff returns. I’m looking forward to being the starting kickoff returner – and punt returner as well. Whatever the coach wants me to do, I’m going to do it.

There you go the initial interview with Mike Wallace, be sure to check out Steelers Depot, or listen to the interview as their is some other interesting information, including the tragedies that this young man has overcome already in his life.

Welcome to Steeler Nation Mike!

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Comments

Jesus, kid needs to move his family with the first paycheck he gets. Him and Ike can be swaggin up ’ere.

Don't worry about the haters. Haters only hate.

by steelguy99 on Apr 27, 2009 3:29 PM EDT reply actions

Just hold onto the ball, Mike!!

charity standing orders

by BadMaafala on Apr 27, 2009 3:45 PM EDT reply actions

yes yes!

by betelgeuse on Apr 27, 2009 9:11 PM EDT up reply actions

Wallace really jumped out at me from this group..

He seems to have that inner fire, like Willie Parker. I can see why after reading about his background. Man, that’s tough. I think guys like Holmes and Burress just play ghetto, because they think it’s cool. Wallace comes from the real thing.

Considering his college numbers, you have to remember that he played in the toughest conference in the nation for one of the weakest teams in that conference. Most games he was going up against the best athletes in college football without having equal talent alongside him.

by robert ethan on Apr 27, 2009 9:55 PM EDT reply actions

something positive about a steeler from RE, i just crapped my pants

I'll drink your Milkshake, I'll drink it up!

by Frank Mineo (DYMS) on Apr 27, 2009 10:02 PM EDT up reply actions

..His natural speed probably holds him back from becoming a complete receiver. It has likely been easier for him just to run by defenders rather than to try to beat them and fight for the ball. Easier also for his coaches to use him as a decoy and just send him down the field to open things up underneath. That is why I think that WR tend to fall into two categories, the speed guys who have trouble with handling the ball and running routes, and the possesion types who catch the tough balls and run precise routes. Hopefully the Steelers will try to develop his overall game, rather than just using him as a decoy for Ward and Holmes.

by robert ethan on Apr 27, 2009 11:55 PM EDT reply actions

I love this guy

He seems most excited to be a Steeler. He also was the first pick to say he watched the Super Bowl and cant wait to get back to it next year. I love that. Sign me up for this kid’s bandwagon already!

by Michael Uhlhorn on Apr 28, 2009 1:17 AM EDT reply actions