Steve McLendon gives advice to players before training camp

Defensive lineman Steve McLendon recently spoke about the advice he gave players in the New York Jets locker room before mandatory minicamp broke out for the long break until training camp.

New York Jets fans still have a bit more waiting to do before the official start of training camp towards the end of this month. Until then, players are taking a well-deserved break and continuing to hone their craft for the competitions that await at One Jets Drive. Things won’t be easy but nothing is guaranteed as every position is up for grabs as the Jets finalize their roster for the regular season.

Until training camp begins, all one can do is be patient and do all the prep work before it’s here. Preparation is the key to all success, especially when it comes to professional football. Luckily, veteran defensive lineman, Steve McLendon, knows what needs to get done in order to stay competitive and be ready for the obstacles ahead in training camp.

Right before mandatory minicamp broke out a few weeks ago, McLendon shared a special message with everyone in the locker room. One of which likely resonated well with all the younger players and especially the rookies ready to work towards playing time in their first pro season.

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In an article written by Olivia Landis of NewYorkJets.com, here’s the advice McLendon told everyone in the locker room before mandatory minicamp broke out:

“For all the guys I just say come back in the best shape of your life,” the 6’3”, 310-pound powerhouse said. “Training Camp is going to be hot, it’s going to be physical, it’s going to be fast. But if you get in very good shape, you’re going to be okay. Study your plays. Study, study, study, study, be in great shape, and let the chips fall where they fall.”

This is great advice as McLendon hit the nail right on the head. Knowing the playbook inside and out will undoubtedly make players stand out due to their ability to execute without even thinking twice. Above all else, however, it’s imperative to be in the best football shape one can be.

Coming off two straight losing seasons will test the competitive spirits of returning players but can also fuel motivation to improve this time around. Hopefully, that rubs off on the newer players that are ready to make a name for themselves. McLendon is entering his third season with the Jets and will continue to mentor everyone around him towards doing their part to win more than just five football games in 2018.