New Orleans Saints Forums - blackandgold.com - Stealthman Keavon Milton: Versatile Beast!

In an exclusive interview with BlackAndGold.com, University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) Head Coach Todd Berry gives his first-hand perspective on undrafted free agent Keavon Milton.

BlackAndGold.com: Coach Berry, we know that this is a very busy time of the year for recruiting new prospects at the university. We appreciate your taking the time to speak with us.

Coach Berry: It’s my pleasure; glad to have the opportunity.

BlackAndGold.com: Coach, before I get into some of the questions, I have to ask you about your last name. Are you related to former NFL great Raymond Berry?

Coach Berry: No, I can’t say that I am; we are not kin.

BlackAndGold.com: Did Keavon Milton get a scholarship to play at ULM?

Coach Berry: Yes he did. We recruited him as a 220 lb. tight end out of Canton, TX. He continued to grow and develop. He was a raw, athletic talent out of high school. He also came up just short of making it as an Academic All American. Even more impressive is that he’s actually close to finishing his Masters degree.

BlackAndGold.com: What stands out about Keavon as a player ON THE FIELD?

Coach Berry: He’s very aggressive and intelligent. We can move him around at a variety of positions. In fact, during his time at ULM, he played: TE, OL, DL and FB. He has great physical attributes.

BlackAndGold.com: What stands out about Keavon on the SIDELINES AND LOCKER ROOM?

Coach Berry: He is very personable, and is NOT the team clown. He gets along well with all the players and has a great work ethic. As a tight end, I’ll often see him staying late working to improve his catching technique using the jugs machine.

BlackAndGold.com: Is there a present or past NFL player that Keavon models, or reminds you of?

Coach Berry: I can’t think of any right now. Keavon will not dazzle you with his speed. He’s a lunch pail, old school throwback-style player. On a short down & distance, he’ll get that five tough yards for a first down. He will set the edge of the offensive formation and help the running game. He’s a great blocker and gets the job done play after play.

BlackAndGold.com: Not all players make an NFL roster. What qualities about Keavon give him a shot at the Saints’ final roster?

Coach Berry: There wasn’t a lot of film on him for the NFL scouts to view, but it’s obvious that the Saints have done their homework on him because Keavon is very versatile and intelligent (cerebral). You will not have to worry about him doing the right thing. He will do more than what is required. When we recruited him, came to play as an offensive lineman. Three years ago we had injuries on the defensive line and asked him to fill in. He did, and did a good job. Then he moved back to offensive line, but broke his leg in two seasons ago. After healing, he came back as a tight end. Last season was the first chance for many to see what he could do there for a full year, and he did not disappoint anyone.

BlackAndGold.com: Is there a game in Keavon’s career that stands out as one in which he performed as a stud player?

Coach Berry: There are several, but he did a great job vs. Arkansas, Auburn and Baylor. A school the size of ULM gets pretty fired-up when they play the major universities. Versus the teams I mentioned, Keavon not only held his own, but he dominated the one-on-one matches. He also worked his way downfield in a few of those games and made key first downs. One was a fourth and short, with our team trailing. He got us the first down, and we went on to win the game. He also had a huge game vs. Baylor, but we came up short 45-42.

BlackAndGold.com: Competition will be tough on the Saints at the tight end and offensive line position. What is your prediction for Keavon: starter, backup or practice squad?

Coach Berry: I have no idea. I spent a lot of time around the NFL, and I know a talent when I see one. Keavon is a talented and intelligent player, and I do not doubt that he will land somewhere in the NFL. I remind you that he played four positions for us during his time here. If you’re making a roster cut, you take a close look at those players that can fill in several spots on the field. Keavon can do just that.

BlackAndGold.com: Any predictions for the Saints in 2013 with Head Coach Sean Payton back in the saddle?

Coach Berry: (chuckle) I know Coach Payton, and I’m friends with several coaches on his staff. But I’m not touching that one. I do know that they will do a job for their fans and the Saints organization. The key question is can the players stay healthy?

BlackAndGold.com: Any final thoughts, coach?

Coach Berry: Keavon will be an NFL player, hopefully with the Saints. His intelligence, versatility and work ethic will land him a spot. You also have another young, talented receiver from ULM trying out as an UDFA; keep an eye on him as well.

BlackAndGold.com: Coach, it was great to get your thoughts on Keavon Milton. On behalf of BlackAndGold.com and Saints fans everywhere, thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule. All the best to the University of Louisiana at Monroe Warhawks in 2013.

Coach Berry: You’re welcome; glad to speak with you.