Offensive Lineman Sam Baker
Q: Did you have a feeling you would be drafted this high?
A: “I got the call early and I thought I might go with the second round picks.”
Q: Do you know if there was interest in other teams for you?
A: “My only other visit was with the Redskins and they were the ones who had the pick.”
Q: Can you talk about your injuries from last season and how they might have limited you a little bit?
A: “I tore my hamstring and broke my ribs early in the season. It was definitely tough to move around.”
Q: Do you think people want to place you at a guard position because you have smaller arms?
A: “When I went to Atlanta, they talked about playing me at different positions. I have a feeling I might be playing them all.”
Q: Did the Falcons mention playing you at left tackle for your primary position?
A: “They told me they would work me around wherever I fit in best. I think I’m going to play everywhere.”
Q: Where are you most comfortable playing on the offensive line?
A: “I’ve played left tackle for the past four years, so that’s where I’m most comfortable.”
Q: Did you go to USC as a guard?
A: “Yes, I was recruited as a guard.”
Q: Do you like your chances to come in and be able to contribute right away?
A: “They have some great offensive linemen there and I know Justin Blalock quite well. I was talking to him and he said the Falcons have great guys there. I’m just looking to come in and compete.”
Q: What do you think of Arena Football?
A: “I love it. I’ve been watching it since I was 12 years old and I grew up on it. It is a different game and not everyone who plays in the NFL can play in the AFL.”
Q: Where were you today during the draft?
A: “I was actually in the gym when the Falcons called me. I assumed I would go later in the draft and I didn’t think I was going to have to worry about missing it.”
Q: Were you mildly surprised when your name was selected?
A: “Yes, I was pretty surprised.”
Q: What kind of advice did your dad give you leading up to the draft?
A: “He told me to not let my draft position change who I am. Whether I was the last pick or the first pick, don’t let it change who I am.”
Q: Were you let down that you were the seventh lineman taken in this draft?
A: “Unfortunately I had a tough injury and there were certain intangibles they look for in offensive linemen that I didn’t have. Everything worked out in the end.”
Q: Where does your nasty, mean-streak attitude come in?
A: “That’s on the field. You can be a good guy off the field, but you have to be a beast on it.”
Q: What are your thoughts on coming in with quarterback Matt Ryan?
A: “He’s a great guy and I’ve talked to him a couple of times. I am going to love playing with him.”
Q: Have you followed the Falcons tough season and how do you feel about being part of the group that tries to turn things around?
A: “I have followed it and I know a lot about it. The new coaching staff is doing some new things and people are starting to buy into it. Just from making my visit, I can tell how attitudes have changed. I’m really excited to be part of the group that will turn things around.”
Q: What is your thought about the concept that the Falcons might have reached for you?
A: “I knew I wanted to go to the Falcons. They traded up to get me and maybe they thought someone else was going to try to get me. I believe in myself as a player and I think I can help this team.”
Q: Why weren’t you totally obsessed with the draft and nervous about it?
A: “I believe God has a plan for me and I knew it was going to be perfect regardless of where I was selected. I’m just excited to get under way now.”
Q: Do you think it’s likely you can start for the Falcons on opening day?
A: “I know I’m going to compete and do my best right away. It’s going to take a lot of work and it’s yet to be determined.”
RELATED LINKS:
- NEWS: Falcons select Ryan third overall | Quotes
- TRADE: Draft-day trade opens door to select Baker
- NEWS: Birds trade up to land Baker | Quotes
- NEWS: Falcons select Lofton in third round | Quotes
- QUOTABLE: Draft Day Presser Part One | Part Two
