I had the opportunity to attend a personal appearance by Maurice Jones-Drew on
Thursday, June 21st. He was there to unveil the new Audi R8 sports car at the
grand opening under the new ownership of Audi Jacksonville.  

I was able to talk to the idol rookie running back for a brief amount of time
and asked him a few questions. He was a very personable young man and quite
approachable considering he is well on his way to superstardom in the NFL.

We discussed the feelings, thoughts and anticipation regarding the upcoming
months where "America's Sport" will be back on the field. Maurice Jones-Drew
said, "I am looking forward to the season." I asked him if he was ready for camp
to start. He replied, "I am ready to get out there and I am excited about camp.
Once camp starts, the season isn't far off. I am really ready for the season to
start."

I don't think the average fan realizes that last season his numbers were so
impressive across the board that he became the third best all time in all
purpose yards. That is an awesome feat of skill for a vet, but for him to do
that as a rookie is absolutely amazing.

He is a class act. The NFL, along with the Jaguars, really need to find the
players of this caliber both on and off the field. It would allow the public to see players, such as Jones-Drew as
the "Face of the NFL."

Maurice Jones-Drew represents the Jacksonville Jaguars and I believe many
players should emulate him.  With only one professional year under his belt, he
has made a strong impact on the team as well as the Jacksonville community. He
has made me proud to be a Jags' fan. I know there is an opportunity for him to
become the fresh young vision of the Jaguars' future.

In this era of Adam "Pac-Man" Jones and Tank Johnson as well as others who are
repeatedly in trouble with the law, and players with egos like T.O., this is the
kind of young man and player any parent would love to have their children look
up to as a role model and hero. I really appreciate the time he spent with me
and it is obvious that Maurice Jones-Drew is undeniably a superstar in the
making.