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Recently I was able to conduct an interview with Texas A&M's standout receiver, Robert Ferguson. Ferguson, who declared himself elegible for the draft after playing one year of major college football, is now ready to show the NFL brass that he'll be here for quite a while. At 6'1 1/4" and weighing an impressive 215-pounds, Ferguson is one of the more physically gifted receivers in this draft. He's also got impressive speed. He was timed at a 4.46 at the combine and recorded an eye popping 4.42 at his recent Pro Day workout. Below is some info on Robert, followed by our interview.

Name: Robert Ferguson

School: Texas A&M

Position: WR

Height: 6'1 1/4"

Weight: 215

40 Time: 4.45

Draft Status: Late first- mid second round projection.

My View: Robert is a very big, physical, fast receiver. He leaves after his first year of major college football, but his physical tools is what allowed him to jump a year early. He's an explosive receiver who has enough speed to stretch the field, and he's got good enough hands and body control to be your typical possession receiver as well. He should be able to step in and become a 3rd receiver and eventually move into a starting position mid way through his rookie year in the right situation.


INTERVIEW:

Q: What kind of person will an NFL team be getting when they draft you?

R.F.: They'll be getting a very hard-working, team oriented person, who knows how to win and a man who is very coachable. I'm also a guy who wants the ball when the game is on the line or when a big play is needed.

Q: What have you heard about your draft status?

R.F.: I've heard so many different things. Nobody really knows where I'll go. I've heard anywhere from the first round to the third round. I guess it just depends on who you talk to.

Q: What are your goals for after your playing career is over?

R.F.: I want to work with the young people. Let them know that anything is possible for their lives. I want to get them while they're young though because those teenagers think they know it all(laughing).

Q: What are your three playing strengths?

R.F.: I'd have to say my intensity, my awareness, and my desire to learn and win and get better.

Q: Do you have any weaknesses in your game that you're looking to improve on?

R.F.: I'm a very young player. I just turned 21 in December, so I think I can improve alot. I need to run crisper routes, but other than that, I'm fine.

Q: Are you physically ready for the NFL?

R.F.: I think I am. I just look at it as another level. I went from high school to JUCO and from JUCO to Texas A&M, so this is just one more level up. I don't think you can ever be ready for how different things will be, but I'll be fine.

Q: Are you mentally ready as well?

R.F.: Yes I am. I know I am. This has been a lifetime dream for me. I'm just enjoying everything right now, but after the draft it's all about business. I've always been a mentally mature person, so I know I can handle the mental aspects of professional football.

Q: Was it a hard decision to leave A&M after your junior year?

R.F.: I don't think it was a hard one. I had to do what I had to do. I love the college game, but I felt I needed to move onto something bigger and more challenging. The decision is made. It's too late to turn back now.

Q: What was your experience at A&M like?

R.F.: It was wonderful. I learned alot from the coaches. It was the best time of my life playing in that stadium. My first game at home, I was in awe. I had never seen or heard anything like that before in my life. I wish it didn't have to end, but it was time.

Q: With the draft just three weeks away, what are you doing to remain focused?

R.F.: I'm just constantly working out and trying to get better. I know I need to get an edge on the higher rated receivers, so that's my motivation.

Q: What was the combine like for you?

R.F.: It was fun. I was able to meet different players and talk to the NFL coaches and GM's. It was fun seeing all the different personalities. The physicals were the downside, but that's all part of the game now.

Q: What are your goals for your rookie season?

R.F.: I want to have a productive year and establish myself as a solid NFL caliber receiver. I also want to play in every game and stay healthy.

Q: What are your career goals?

R.F.: I want to have longevity and leave a mark like Lynn Swann did. That's important for me.

Q: What teams have expressed the most interest in you thus far?

R.F.: Every team has told me I'm a good player, but they all have their poker faces on. It's hard to tell who likes you and who doesn't.

M.G.: Thanks for your time Robert and Good Luck!!!

R.F.: Thanks Matt! I appreciate it.