In April of 2010, Jamar Chaney was 1 out of hundreds of young men anxiously awaiting the NFL Draft. Nervous, excited, anxious...all of these words describe Jamar's feelings until he heard the words of relief from Roger Goodell; "Jamar Chaney, Philadelphia Eagles!" It seemed as if the world stopped for a moment; all eyes were on Jamar. HE, along with 254 other young men would be playing in the National Football League. Out of the 327 men that competed in the NFL Combine, JAMAR CHANEY was drafted to the Philadelphia Eagles! Jamar still remembers the day as if it were yesterday. Only now, he is approaching his third year in the NFL.
I had the pleasure of meeting Jamar during our tenure at Mississippi State University. I have always found him to be a very respectable young man, and most importantly a man of God. It is no doubt in my mind that these characteristics along with the support of Jamar's family, helped get him to where he is today. As the 2012 draft drew close, I began to think of Jamar. I wondered what advice he would give these young men since he is now on the "other side". So, I called him!...and to my surprise, he was eager to do an interview! I am so thankful for this opportunity to interview my brother in Christ, my friend, my colleague...Mr. Jamar Chaney.
NRH: How does it feel to be on the "other side"?
JAMAR: It feels great! Being on the "other side" means I'm now in the NFL. I am going on my 3rd year. Time really flies, but it's a blessing because on average, an NFL player only lasts 2 seasons.
NRH: What advice would you give young men anxiously waiting to hear Roger Goodell call their name? This has to be a life changing moment, right?
JAMAR: Absolutely! My Alma Mater, Mississippi State University, has 4 guys that are projected to get drafted; Fletcher Cox, Charles Mitchell, Vick Ballard, and Quentin Saulsberry. I am always talking and giving advice to these young men. I encourage them to make the most of this experience because it only happens once.
NRH: How would you describe your 1st year in the NFL? Surely it's a lot of pressure along with the responsibility of millions of dollars; what advice would you give on handling that?
JAMAR: My 1st year in the NFL was more than I could ever imagine. The Philadelphia Eagles have the most passionate fans in the league. Near the end of the season, I was a starting player. I had the opportunity to help my team make the playoffs; that was an awesome feeling. I would tell the guys to enjoy the experience no matter the outcome, and no matter the order in which you get drafted. You constantly have to prove yourself. Being drafted is like the start of a track meet. No matter if your 1st, 2nd, or 3rd, it is up to you to decide who ultimately wins the race. As far as money...it's not guaranteed. Most players leave the game in debt, so I would encourage all young men to be smart with their earnings.
NRH: What has been your biggest challenge playing for the Philadelphia Eagles? How did you overcome that challenge?
JAMAR: Guys drafted in the 7th round usually do not make the team; I did. You have to go in and prove to the coaching staff, as well as your teammates, that you are capable to play at your desired position. I was a 7th round pick. However, I did things no other linebacker has done (for the Eagles) in a few years. This includes starting 19 games straight with 3+ interceptions within a year span.
NRH: What motivates you?
JAMAR: I try not to play for motivation, but rather by inspiration. Inspiration to do my best not only on the football field, but in life and in my spiritual walk with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ...inspiration to be a good boyfriend, and soon to be husband. I think if you look at things from a different angle, everything else will take care of itself.
NRH: What is your life motto?
JAMAR: You're either getting better or you're getting worse (everyday); there is no staying the same.
NRH: What is the best advice someone has given you?
JAMAR: The best advice I have been given was to get to know Jesus. My life has not been the same since.
NRH: What other interests do you have outside of football? Any hidden talents you would like to share with us? Haha
JAMAR: Other interests..hmmmm..I just love spending time with my lady, my family, and my homies.
NRH: Is there anything else you would like to share?
JAMAR: I encourage everyone reading to keep God and His Word 1st and everything else will take care of itself. Be Blessed.
I think it's safe to say that Jamar is one of a kind. Congrats to him and his soon to be wife, Shamira Thompson. I know he will go far in life as long as he continues to keep God first. I wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors and I'm so thankful that I call this man my friend.
Until next time,
XOXO
t.RAE :)
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