Eric Decker | Minnesota
DraftSeason: Eric, you and the Gophers are having a breakout year, what is the biggest difference on and off the field for the Minnesota Gophers this year?
Eric: The biggest difference this year is the mentality we have developed throughout the offseason. We have all bought into Coach Brewster’s philosophy and built a sense of trust among the team. We came into this season having a chip on our shoulder and being hungry to earn respect among the Big 10.
DraftSeason: What part of your overall receiving game do you think needs to be worked on the most to excel at the next level?
Eric: My biggest need is to continually develop my speed and ability to get off the line of scrimmage. To be successfull at the next level, these two aspects are vital for any wide receiver.
DraftSeason: You have had the chance to go against some tough defenders playing in the Big 10, which defensive back has given you the most trouble during your college career?
Eric: In my opinion, the Big 10 is one of the greatest conferences that is made up of great athletes. Malcolm Jenkins and Vonte Davis are two of the best cornerbacks in the Nation and have proven themselves over the past few years. These two guys have been the most challenging throughout my career.
DraftSeason: Whats your take on Sophomore quarterback Adam Weber, he has become one of the top quarterbacks in the Big 10, should he get all the credit or are you just making him look good?
Eric: Adam Weber is a natural born leader who is one of the rising stars in college football. He has made drastic improvements over the past year and should be credited for the success Minnesota is having on the field this year. He is a great football player, but more importantly, a great teammate.
DraftSeason: You are a Minnesota boy through and through, so we assume you are a Vikings fan, who were your favorite players to watch growing up?
Eric: My favorite players growing up include Jerry Rice (football) and Kirby Puckett (baseball). Being one of the greatest recievers of all time, Jerry Rice made the game look simple and exciting. Being older now and understanding his work ethic, I have gained more appreciation for the determination he demonstrated. As for Kirby Puckett, there isnt a guy I wanted to be more. Wearing his jersey 3 times a week and mimicking everything he did, Kirby was a hero to me.
DraftSeason: What current or former Gopher player or coach has helped you the most in developing your game?
Eric: Logan Payne (Seattle Seahawks) and Matt Speath (Pittsburgh Steelers) were two of the biggest influences in my career at the University of Minnesota. Both had successful careers during their time at the U, which paved the way for my own career. They helped me become a better person on and off the field and shaped the way I worked at football. There isn’t two guys I respect more.
DraftSeason: You also play baseball for the Gophers in the spring, do you see a future in that or is that just to pass the time until football starts again? Can you give us a prediction on how many bombs you are thinkin for the 2009 season?
Eric: Baseball has been part of my life since I remember taking my first steps. I was excited to get the opportunity to join the baseball team last spring and earn a starting position. I want to keep my options open, so baseball could be a possible future for myself. My goal this year is to hit 10+ bombs, but I am no clean up hitter.
DraftSeason: We know you love playing ball for the Minnesota Gophers and that it is VERY early, but could you see any scenario where you would decide to leave early to play in the NFL?
Eric: At this point, I haven’t thought about leaving early to pursue my dream in the NFL. Being part of college athletics is short-lived and very special. There is no environment compared to Saturday afternoons, and the relationships made with teammates is priceless.