Stealthman

In an exclusive interview with BlackandGold.com, former University of Georgia Defensive Line Coach Rodney Garner provides his perspective on why Jonathan Jenkins has a legitimate shot at making the Saints’ 2013 active roster.

B&G.com: Coach, we realize that this is active recruiting season, and we really appreciate your taking the time to do this interview.

Coach Garner: I’m glad to be able to do it. Even though I’m now coaching at Auburn, I coached the defensive line for the Georgia Bulldogs prior to coming here after last season.

B&G.com: Did Jenkins get a scholarship to play for the Bulldogs? And please straighten me out; I’ve seen his name a couple of ways. What does he go by: Jonathan or John?

Coach Garner: Yes, it’s John. He was actually one of the top rated Junior College players in the country when we offered him a scholarship to transfer to the University of Georgia.

B&G.com: What stands out to you about John as a player on the field?

Coach Garner: John has tremendous athleticism for his size. He is quick on his feet, and actually moves like a linebacker.


B&G.com: What stands out to you about John on the sidelines or in the locker room?

Coach Garner: Personally, everybody loves him; he has no enemies because of the way he treats others. He’s personable, and gets along with all of his teammates. People are drawn to him; he’s an outstanding talent. He has also overcome a lot of personal difficulties. He is truly an inspiration to young kids who may need someone to look up to.

B&G.com: Is there a present or past NFL player that John models, or reminds you of?

Coach Garner: I coached Richard Seymore on the defensive line, and John has a similar style of play. He’s light on his feet, and has a high ceiling for potential. The Saints will be pleased. He will work hard, and will certainly take his game to another level. I also coached Geno Atkins (DT for the Bengals), who has only been in the league for 3 years, and has already been to the Pro Bowl twice. I see the same level of play (potentially) for John. He (Jenkins) should have been a first rounder, and the Saints got a steal by choosing him. Another plus for John is that the Saints will NOT have to worry about his having a weight problem; he’ll stay fit during his entire time in the NFL.

B&G.com: Not all players make an NFL roster. What qualities about John give him a shot at the Saints’ final roster?

Coach Garner: John has NO OUTSIDE DISTRACTIONS; he will very focused and disciplined. He will show up early for practice, and also be one of the last ones leaving afterwards. Hard work is important to him. He is not selfish, and is very humble. Yes, they gave him the nickname “Motel 6,” but he never gets a big head.

B&G.com: Is there a game in John’s career that stands out as one in which he stood out as a stud player?

Coach Garner: There were several. The bowl game a couple of years ago vs. Michigan State is one where he not only played huge in the trenches, but he also came away with an interception. The game vs. the Florida Gators last year was also a stellar performance. During the second half of last season our team was hit with a rash of injuries to our defensive ends. John was so versatile and quick that we used him as a defensive end. He did an outstanding job.

B&G.com: Competition should be tough on the Saints at the Defensive Line positions. What is your prediction for John: a) starter, b) backup, c) practice squad?

Coach Garner: I’m not exaggerating when I tell you that I would be SHOCKED if John Jenkins was not a starter for the Saints in 2013. Yes, he is that good!

B&G.com: Any predictions on how the Saints will do now that head coach Sean Payton is back?

Coach Garner: I know Coach Payton personally, and he interviewed my for possibly joining his coaching staff (in 2006). Even though I didn’t get the position, I think Bill Johnson is an excellent coach and he along with head coach Sean Payton will have the Saints playing at a high level. Having said all of that, I believe that the Saints will be competitive as one of the top teams in the NFC.

B&G.com: Any final thoughts before we wrap up, Coach?

Coach Garner: Overall, I think the Saints will be very pleased with John Jenkins. He will be a model team member as a player, as a member of the local community, and as a person. I say again that the Saints got a top rated talent in John.

B&G.com: Coach Garner, on behalf of BlackandGold.com and Saints fans everywhere, thank you once again for taking the time to share your thoughts with us.

Coach Garner: You’re welcome; it was my pleasure.

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