EP132: J.D. Runnels

It is that time of the year where many of us are missing watching football and are highly anticipating its return. This episode is sure to help fill that void as former NFL player J.D. Runnels stops by the studio to chat about all things football. J.D. is from the eastside of Oklahoma City and began playing sports at an early age. He graduated from Carl Albert High School and discusses the ups and downs he endured while playing football. Despite an injury his senior year; he was offered scholarships from Texas A&M, Oklahoma State, and the University of Oklahoma. He ultimately accepted an offer from OU. He openly shares a day in the life of a collegiate athlete in an elite program. J.D. recalls the excitement he felt when scouted by the NFL and entering the draft. He was selected by the Chicago Bears in the 6th round of the NFL draft. J.D. discloses how the life-changing moment felt and reveals the complications that come along with playing football at the professional level. While it may appear to be alluring; J.D. tells how it can be cutthroat. He discusses his time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cincinnati Bengals as well. From injuries to being cut from teams to appearing on the HBO show Hard Knocks, J.D. vividly takes us along the journey of his NFL career. He also provides deep insight into what it was like playing alongside legendary players and the bonds that were formed along the way. Today, J.D. is focused on giving back to athletes by providing coaching and mentoring. He describes the importance of building up athletes and pushing them to play to the best of their abilities. He teaches 7th and 8th-grade math and also coaches five teams. The OU crimson blood is still in his veins which is evident with his podcast called Fullback U. On his show he converses with former and current Sooners about life on and off the field. J.D. has had a remarkable career and his dedication and work ethic is unmatched. His future goals are to coach college football and to delve into sports recruiting as well. We are sure that he will continue to be successful as he strives to accomplish those goals. This episode is super inspiring and full of gems that any sports fan will enjoy

.Song featured in episode: Teammate Malcolm Kelly freestyle after 2006 Big 12 Championship win

Facebook: Fullback UYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCruxa71C8SvFJfQHVCql9dA
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