Taylor: 'I'm Catching On'

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For veterans, learning the offensive and defensive schemes has been a challenge. So imagine how it must be for a rookie just six weeks into his NFL career. Sean Taylor, the Redskins’ first-round draft pick last April, is doing just fine. Taylor spoke with Redskins.com during mini-camp.

Q: Describe your learning curve on the practice fields and in the classroom:

A: "Basically, it’s just a matter of getting the mental reps on the field--going through it and knowing it. And then keep doing it over and over. As far as in the classroom, it’s going well. I’m catching on to the defense and what’s expected of me."

Q: Is your comfort level improving?

A: "Of course. At the last mini-camp, all of this was just introduced to me and now it’s a little bit easier. Now I have more of an understanding about what’s going on as far as the defensive scheme and what’s expected from the safety position in this defense."

Q: Did anything surprise you about the transition from the college game to the pros?

A: "No, I knew I was going to have to come in and learn a whole new system and try to get it all down. That’s what I’m doing."

Q: How much classroom work was involved the last few weeks?

A: "A lot. Everybody’s working and learning. If you’re not learning fast, nobody’s going to slow down for you. It’s really just catching on and then keeping up the hard work. When you get on the field, the repetitions really make a difference."

Q: Has the attention to detail at the mini-camp made an impression on you and your teammates?

A: "Coaches just want you to work and put forth the effort. They put everything out there in front of you and they expect you to go home, learn the play calls and put forth as much effort as you can."

Q: Does having veterans around make it easier on you?

A: "Of course. Playing with LaVar [Arrington] and the vets does make it easier for a new guy. They have that upper edge and they’re the leaders on this team. They’ll help you out if there’s something you don’t understand."

Q: Do you feel you’re getting up to the speed of LaVar and the veteran players?

A: "Yes. Slowly but surely, I’m getting more comfortable with the calls. I know what coaches want and I’m learning where players are supposed to be. I’m learning the play calls. It’s coming a lot easier."