NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Former Titans safety Bernard Pollard raved about Florida State defensive back Jalen Ramsey in an interview with Titans Online last month.
During his pre-draft visit with the Titans earlier this week, Ramsey said Pollard has made a positive impact on him leading up to the NFL Draft.
"I really love and enjoy working with him,'' Ramsey said of Pollard, who played two seasons at safety with the Titans after playing previously with the Ravens, Texans and Chiefs. Pollard won a Super Bowl ring with the Ravens, and earned a reputation in the league for being a no-nonsense, hard-nosed player.
"Not only did we go over DB skills, but he also tried to teach me how to be a pro a little bit more and I gained a lot of knowledge from him being a veteran on the league, and having success in the league. It was definitely a great time being able to work with him. I feel so blessed to have that opportunity."
Pollard spent over six weeks with Ramsey in Nashville at Ramsey Performance Training, where he worked with the former Brentwood Academy star on position specific drills, and also spent time with him in the classroom. The two spent three days a week with one another – one hour each time on the field, and another hour "on the board" each session.
While Pollard instructed Ramsey on football-specific drills, Willie Smith, 1984 Olympic gold medalist in the 4X400 relay, worked with Ramsey three hours a week leading up to the NFL combine on speed training.
Florida State DB Jalen Ramsey makes a pre-draft visit with the Titans at Saint Thomas Sports Park. (Photos: Gary Glenn)
"That helped me a lot,'' Ramsey said. "I am a track guy, so I know how to run and techniques and things like that. But (Smith) came in and polished me a little bit and taught me new drills to keep my speed up to date."
Ramsey, who's in consideration for the No.1 pick in the NFL Draft, said he remains in contact with Pollard.
Ramsey said Pollard offered some valuable advice for him to follow when he first enters the league.
"He told me what to look for in the NFL, just playing ball,'' Ramsey said. "But he gave me knowledge of what to do coming into the league, as far as trying to get around a veteran who you see carries himself in a very professional manner to have that good culture to be around. He told me I definitely should try and surround myself with veterans who I can learn from in the league."
