ProFootballCentral caught up with new Rams linebacker Dexter Coakley in an exclusive interview
1) Thank you for your time Dexter to sit down with us here at ProFootballCentral.com.
Thanks for having me.
2) What was your initial reaction when Dallas released you?
Really had no reaction, there was no agreement on salary, and the uncertainty on style of defense really made me uneasy. There was no chance to dwell, the Rams latched on very quick which was huge for me.
3) You played all eight years in Dallas, do you think they handled your situation in the best way possible?
Yes, obviously you want to retire with the team who drafted you, but it was a difficult situation, but the Cowboys showed great class. It was a situation that we saw as a better chance to try the market, and the defensive schemes changed, which did not fit me as well.
4) Even though you were only a free agent for a brief amount of time, how was that like?
It was a combination of a few things; a lot of anxiety, excitement, and nervousness because of the uneasy situation with my family. However, I was lucky for the process to move quickly.
5) Your string of seven 100 tackle seasons were broken last season by just nine tackles, don’t you wish pre-season counted?
No, because pre-season had nothing to do with it. I rotated time with a younger guy, so I had no control of that situation. I just played the best possible way I could when I was out on that field which is all that matters.
6) What made you sign with the Rams so quickly, and how many other teams were interested in you?
The whole process happened so fast, but their defensive scheme was my style. Also, Coach Martz met me at the airport, which really made me feel welcomed and at home, which was a big deal for me. As soon as I got there, the coach and staff just seemed like a family, and just made me feel at ease, making this a pretty easy decision to make. This team before me just needed a little tweak on the defense to make this a super bowl team, making them the frontrunners from the beginning.
7) What does it show you that the Rams acted so fast on you and viewed you as their number one priority?
It really shows that they wanted me as much as I wanted to be here. The coach and staff were very open, and it is a great feeling to feel wanted, making it a no brainer for me.
8) Will there be any trouble, do you think, moving to weak sideline backer again?
There will be no problems at all, I have played weak side before, I am accustomed to it, and very comfortable with either position.
9) Rams also signed Chris Clairborne as their new middle linebacker, what are your comments on him?
Chris is a big middle guy whom you cannot run through, and must run around him. He is very physical in the middle, a great veteran, and a great force in the middle of the field. We are going to have a great unit.
10) What is your number one goal that you are bringing to St. Louis?
My number one goal is to be a true pro, in all aspects of the game. To show great work ethic, pride, toughness, to get to Super Bowl, and to be the number one defense in the league.
11) Can the greatest show on turf go defensive next season?
Absolutely. I think that both sides will compliment each other. The offense spreads the ball around a lot, and is great with clock management, which gives the defense time to rest. Clock management is very important for us, and the offense helps us with that, through their passing and aggressive running style.
12) For the St. Louis fans out there, what will they be getting out of Dexter Coakley?
Expect to see a pro with a hard hat, who will not back down, very approachable with autographs and everything. I feel that practice is where it starts, and is just as important as the game. I have great passion and drive to be the best player possible, and the St. Louis fans will see that.
13) Anything else you would like to say to your St. Louis fans?
I just want to thank the Rams for the opportunity, for making me feel welcomed, my goal is to see the Rams back into the Super Bowl, and I cannot wait to get back onto the field, and to meet these fans.
14) Dexter, thank you for your time to sit down with us at ProFootballCentral.com.
No problem, thank you for your time.
This guy sounds like a class act and a gamer. He's going to be a great addition to the defense this year.
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