Rod Issac was added to the Jacksonville Jaguars defense during the fifth round of the NFL draft in April of 2011. He joins a secondary that has been suspect at best over the past three seasons, but there is reason to believe improvement is around the corner for the coming year.

In a recent phone interview session, I had the pleasure of speaking to this young man about his upbringing, college life and the NFL draft, along with his workout routine and personal goals. I want to point out right from the start that Rod Issac seems to be a man of character and extremely motivated.

Issac was born and raised in the Miami area and attended Miami Central High School. He has played football since he was six years old and became passionate about it at age eight, thanks in part to his two older brothers that were 14 and 16 at the time. As he grew older, he became more skilled and learned to love football, because it enabled him to "channel his emotions and build on his personal strengths." 

He had much to say on the process of getting drafted regarding how it helped him prepare for his career in the NFL. "It was a tough process that took two months to train for. I had to give it a serious effort, so I maximized my effort and my body improved."

He had a productive pro day, which showcased both his speed and change of direction. Both skills are important assets for defensive backs. He ran a 4.41 second 40 yard dash, 1.56 second 10 yard split and has a 33.5 inch vertical leap.

Rod Issac said the excitement of his family and friends was the best part of getting drafted, but feels like he hasn't accomplished anything yet. He believes he can improve the Jaguars' secondary by, "going in and challenging the guys, pushing them and making them compete."

The cornerback mentioned that he wants to come in and help the team any way he can. He has spoken with Derek Cox and Courtney Greene, some of his fellow young defensive backs from Jacksonville. They told him to continue working out and be ready the moment the lockout ends.

Issac, like the rest of the Jaguars defensive backs are working out daily, though he is still at home in Miami. The Jaguars defensive backs are doing a lot of running and positional work. He said he runs track a lot, works on change in direction and sprints.

The small school standout is not worried about the lockout hindering his performance. Issac said, "I have been preparing for this my whole life, I just need to learn the playbook." 

He's also looking forward to learning from Rashean Mathis, because he has been very good for a very long time. He wants to push Rashean back to a Pro Bowl level.

Rod Issac is expected to come into camp and compete for the starting nickel back spot right away and contribute on special teams.