As a writer for a sports blog, weird things cross my inbox on a fairly regular basis. From folks catching the many mistakes I make and not wanting to embarrass me by posting a comment (Thanks!!) to complaints about a poster run amuck and using those swear words to...you get the picture. I have to say, the email that eventually turned into an interview with the Patriots' newest running back, Fred Taylor, ranks as one of the coolest I've had so far.
As you may know, this is the 50th Anniversary of the AFL. Playing their first season in 1960, the AFL and its eight teams later merged with the NFL in 1970. This year, the eight original AFL teams (Boston Patriots, Buffalo Bills, Houston Oilers, New York Titans/Jets, Dallas Texans/Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos, Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers, and Oakland Raiders) will be wearing "throwback" jerseys. To celebrate the anniversary during the regular season, each of the 'original eight' AFL teams will take part in two Legacy Weekends, during which each will play another original eight team, with both teams in AFL throwback uniforms.
So, what does this have to do with interviewing Fred Taylor? Hold on, I'm getting there. Fred, along with players from other AFL teams, is working with Reebok on the launch of their 50th Anniversary throwback apparel. When a PR rep for Reebok emailed me and asked if I'd like to interview Fred, I nearly fell out of my chair. Apparently one of the rep's co-workers is a New York transplant originally from Boston and reads our blog. Connection made.
Before I get to the interview, I wanted to thank the folks from Reebok for connecting me with Fred and I want to especially thank Fred for taking the time to talk with me and answer my questions. He's a super nice man and is really pumped to be in New England. So, without further delay, I give you Fred Taylor.
Audio Download: Fred Taylor Interview
Slideshow: Fred Taylor photo shoot