One-on-one with Brian Leonard
It's been a busy couple months for Brian Leonard as he gets prepared for the NFL Draft this April. Fresh off the combine where he set the mark for all backs in the bench press and showed an impressive time in the 40 yard dash, Leonard still can't help but break into a smile when he talks about his time with Rutgers.
I had the opportunity to recently speak with Brian for a magazine article I am working on for Blitz! Magazine and made sure to ask the senior a few questions for everyone on the site. In true fashion, Mr. Scarlet Knight was gracious enough to give us an update of what his schedule is like and other musings.
On his schedule and what the off-season has been like thus far: Tough routine, working out twice a day (at a training facility in New Mexico). My day starts at 7:30 and the workout begins at 8:00 and runs for a couple hours. I then hit another routine from 1:30 – 4:30.
What the objectives have been this off-season: Working on all things, becoming more rounded. Strength, definitely. Agility as well. Becoming NFL ready. Working really hard to get myself ready.
Working on durability, especially the little things that nag you. Right now, I'm doing well.
On the chances to play near Rutgers: That'd be great. There is something like a half-dozen teams in the northeast, so the chances are good. I know my mother would like that [boyish chuckle].
Where he sees himself lining up at the next level: I see myself as a versatile back. I don't think I'm one dimensional; I can run, block and catch. I can't worry myself with that though; I'm just going to play my role.
Whether he worries about the trappings of fame: I grew up a humble guy. The way I was raised, this won't be a problem. I just need to work hard.
I'm not the kind of person to get bogged down with those types of things. I'm not into partying, glamour, jewelry. No flair. That's not who I am or who I want to be.
On Rutgers' 2007 recruiting class: Oh yeah, it's great. Coach Schiano is going to recruit class guys; that's the kind of guy he is. He turned around this program. If the guys on the team don't want a player, we will tell him that and he will listen to us.
About the possible stadium expansion: I think it is wonderful and hope that I had a part in all of this. It's great to see more fans come in; maybe there will be a full circle around the upper-deck.
I hope to have my own box there, a luxury suite. I mean it, I want to stay involved. I can't wait to get back.
Thoughts on Greg Schiano's new home: He deserves it. Maybe he can throw on an addition for me.
Final thoughts: Just let everyone know, I'm proud to be a Scarlet Knight.
Kristian R. Dyer covers the BIG EAST for Rivals. He is the associate editor of Blitz! Magazine and he appears regularly in the New York City daily newspaper METRO and on ESPN.com. He can be reached for comment at KristianRDyer@yahoo.com