On Saturday Bilal Powell, the New York Jets fourth round pick, addressed the media. Here is the transcript courtesy of the Jets.
On his thoughts about being drafted by the Jets…
(It is a) great feeling right now, just to get the opportunity at a great organization and having (the opportunity) to play under Rex Ryan.
On playing in a crowded backfield with LaDainian Tomlinson and Shonn Greene…
I just want to come in and compete. LaDainian Tomlinson is a good running back. I just want to learn from those guys, learn the system and just compete every day.
On the jump in his production last season…
We had a new coach come in (and) my role changed. Just getting the opportunity to play this way.
On whether the Jets were a place he thought he might wind up…
I kind of figured they had a good interest in me, especially on the visit, (and) just hearing from my coaches and my agent.
On his strengths as a player and what he can contribute right away…
I think (my strengths are) being able to catch the ball out of the backfield, being able to run the ball inside and outside (and) being able to contribute on special teams, too.
On his past…
I had troubles. I was kind of bad for a little bit. I ended up getting saved my senior year and changed a lot of things.
On his special team’s role at Louisville…
The only special teams I didn’t do was punt returns.
On if he returned kicks at Louisville…
I was on kick return
On his injury status…
It was a right hamstring pull. Right now it is healing, almost 100%. I’m still getting treatment on it.