PITTSBURGH STEELERS 2009 THIRD-ROUND DRAFT PICK KEENAN LEWIS CORNERBACK Conference Call
KEENAN LEWIS
Cornerback – Oregon State University
3rd Round – 96th Overall
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*Keenan Lewis:
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*What is it like coming here with your high school teammate, Mike Wallace?
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It has always been my dream to play in the NFL. It's also a dream to play with one of my best friends. Since the age of six when we played Pop Warner together, we have played together ever since.
*Were you disappointed when he didn't go to Oregon State with you?
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I was a little upset he didn't go to Oregon State, but he made the best choice for him and I am happy for him.
*Can you cover him?
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I definitely can cover him. He thinks that he can take me so now he is going to have his chance. We have been competing hard since high school.
*Did you talk to him after the Steelers picked him?
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Yes, he was the first one to call me when he saw his name pop up. I am about to go to his house right now to celebrate with him.
*Are you familiar with Ike Taylor, who Coach Ray Horton just compared you too?
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I love Ike. I have worked with Ike when I was down with Tom Shaw and he showed me what I need to work on. It is a blessing to be working with him.
*Do you have a "Face Me Ike" t-shirt?
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He gave us one before he left. I just tried to take everything that he had. Now I get to work with him.
*Do you have the speed to play in this league?
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Yeah, I definitely have the speed. I think I play faster than a 4.4. Also, I had the opportunity to go against DeSean Jackson and those type of guys. I definitely think I have the speed.
*Did you and Mike have a side bet about who would get drafted first?
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I thought I was going to be taken first. My name was one that popped up first on the draft lists before his. When he got picked, it was a relief for me because he has been my best friend for a long time.
*What is your reaction coming to this team, and what do you know about the Steelers?
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I had a chance to watch them play and I am a big fan of Ike Taylor. I was a fan of Bryant McFadden. I just like the way they play – their defense gets after it. They are out there to win. That is what I want to be a part of – a great organization.
*How much do you expect to play as a rookie?
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I think I am going to have a chance to play. I feel like some people overlooked me and that I was underrated. Now, I feel like I have a point to prove. I'm going to come and give 150% because I thought I was one of the top cornerbacks in the draft. I am glad that these coaches had a chance to see that.
*Did you do any returning in college?
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No. Mike and I were kickoff and punt returners in high school. The coaches had me stay away from it in college. I still have it in me.
