I Kicked In Front Of An NFL Coach.. (Project NFL Ep. 2)

Summary

The video follows former NFL kicker Donald De La Haye as he strives to return to the league after being ruled ineligible in 2017. It documents his intense training regiment under 'mad scientist' Ian, lessons with renowned kicking coach Gary Zauner, and his persistence through setbacks and doubt. De La Haye discusses his unwavering dream of playing in the NFL again and the work required to overcome obstacles and prove himself at an invite-only free agent combine. The summary captures De La Haye's motivations, support system, and the challenges on his journey back to the NFL.

Takeaways

• 😊 Donald believes he still has the dream and ability to play in the NFL despite being ruled ineligible.
• 😞 Donald feels there is something missing in his heart and that his NFL dream has not been as easy as expected.
• 🏈 Donald is grateful for the opportunity to be in a Super Bowl commercial.
• 😴 Donald finds early morning shoots for commercials difficult and tiring.
• 😡 Donald and his manager occasionally have heated disagreements.
• ☮️ Donald and his manager are able to resolve conflicts quickly.
• 😃 Donald sees improvements in his physique after 2-3 weeks of intense training.
• 😫 Donald struggles through grueling leg workouts with his trainer Ian.
• 🏉 Donald learns specialized kicking drills and techniques from renowned kicking coach Gary Zauner.
• 😤 Donald aims to prove himself at a kicking combine in March before NFL coaches.

Q & A

What is Donald's dream and biggest obstacle?

Donald's dream is to play in the NFL. His biggest obstacle has been being ruled ineligible by the NFL.

How has training been going for Donald?

Training has been hard, but Donald has been locked in and going hard with it. However, he still has work to do and bills to pay.

What commercial opportunity did Donald get?

Donald was blessed with the opportunity to be featured in a Super Bowl commercial.

Who is Ian and what is his role?

Ian is Donald's trainer. He pushes Donald hard in workouts to help him get stronger, faster, and more explosive.

Who is Gary Zoner and why is he important?

Gary Zoner is a legendary kicking coach who has worked with many top NFL kickers. Donald meets with him to improve his kicking technique.

What kicking issues does Zoner identify for Donald?

Zoner identifies that Donald is a 'cruncher' when kicking, meaning his body goes downward instead of lifting up through the ball. This is inefficient.

What is the kicking combine that Zoner hosts?

Zoner hosts invite-only combines for free agents and aspiring players to showcase their skills for NFL teams and coaches.

Why does Donald think the combine will be important?

Donald believes the combine will be where he can prove himself as a legitimate talent in front of NFL decision makers.

How has training been helping Donald mentally?

In addition to physical gains, the discipline of training every day has been helping Donald's mental state tremendously.

What is notable about Donald's relationship with Sway?

Donald and his manager Sway have a strong relationship where they hold each other accountable, talk through issues, and never stay mad long.