Worth a Hill Of Beans

A Q&A with Cardinal rookie Chris "Beanie" Wells:

How do you improve upon a season that saw your team reach its first-ever Super Bowl? If you're the Arizona Cardinals, you begin by drafting arguably the most dynamic running back in the class of 2009. The reigning NFC champs used their first-round pick in this year’s NFL draft to select bruising Ohio Staterunning back Chris “Beanie” Wells. The decision to draft the 6-foot, 1-inch, 228-pound junior at No. 31 overall was a no-brainer for Arizona. Wells finished his three-year career in Columbus rushing for 3,382 yards (fourth all-time in Buckeye’s history) and 30 touchdowns. This season, he’ll attempt to return the red birds to the Super Bowl.  

Do you prefer “Chris” or “Beanie?”

Which of your older brothers gave you the nickname “Beanie?”

What number were you among your 11 brothers and sisters?

When you were growing up in Akron, who would you emulate on the field while playing pick-up games with your friends and brothers?

Where would you guys play?

What were your thoughts on the Arizona Cardinals while growing up?

Do you feel as if you slipped a bit in the draft? And, if so, is it a blessing in disguise joining a team coming off an appearance in the Super Bowl?

What kind of personal goals are you setting for yourself entering training camp? What do you have to do to be the starter or to have an impact your rookie year?

What weight are you tipping the scales at this summer?

What kind of personal training regimen are you on? Who are you/have you been working with?

I’m sure everyone has advice for you on how to handle the transition to the NFL. What’s the best piece of wisdom you’ve received so far?

How does the Cardinal play book compare with that of Ohio State? Did you think the days of studying were over once you left school?

What’s been the biggest difference so far between the college and pro game?

Have you had a “welcome to the NFL” moment?

Looking at this year’s schedule, are there any teams you’re particularly looking forward to playing against?

Have any of the veterans taken you under their wing, so to speak?

You wore No. 28 at OSU, but for the Cards you’ll don No. 26. Any chance Keith Lewis will surrender No. 28? Does either number hold any significance for you?

On Nov. 21, OSU will travel up to Ann Arbor to face Michigan. You’re the only Buckeye on the Cards’ roster. How do you respond to any smack talk from ex-Wolverines such as Steve Breaston and Allan Branch?  

Has the rookie hazing begun?