Mock Interview Series: Osi Umenyiora

Over the next weeks leading up to the 2009 season, I will be conducting a series of mock interviews which lay out 10 questions I would ask certain players on the Giants' roster, should I get the opportunity.

The first interview will be with Osi Umenyiora, a pass rushing specialist coming off major reconstructive knee surgery.

Well, first things first...how is the knee?

Osi injured his knee in the preseason of last year in a game with the Jets, and everybody has to be wondering how he will perform in 2009.

When you first came into the league, did you imagine you would amount to a perennial All-Pro?

Osi was a second-round pick in 2003, but he came from Troy State University, not exactly a powerhouse.

Who do you most attribute your success to, other than yourself?

I wonder who was most influential in Osi's progression as an NFL player.

How has your Nigerian heritage impacted you as a person?

He was born into a Nigerian family, and lived in Nigeria for a while...I wonder how his culture has impacted him as a person and as a player.

Having been born in London, what is your response to a possible division of the NFL being in England?

I think this one speaks for itself. He was born in London and has connections there.

Were you recruited by BCS schools? If not, was that motivation to dominate while at Troy State?

He finished second in the nation in sacks as a senior in '02. I wonder if he had extra motivation by not being recruited by the BCS conferences.

Do you maintain a friendship with former teammate DeMarcus Ware?

Ware and Osi were teammates at Troy. Osi was two years ahead of Ware. I wonder if they still maintain a friendship. I also imagine Osi would joke around, saying Ware wouldn't be anywhere without his teachings.

Are you expecting to return to form immediately, or do you think it may take a while to acclimate yourself back to game speed?

Coming off major knee surgery, most people are questioning whether Osi will return to his usual dominant self.

From what you can gather so far, how will Bill Sheridan replace Steve Spagnuolo as defensive coordinator?

The guy who turned around the Giants' defense, Spagnuolo, has left for greener pastures. I wonder how Osi feels Sheridan will fair as his replacement.

What are your expectations for the team this season?

The question to ask everyone on the team: how they feel the team will finish.

Stay tuned for my next piece where I give a mock interview with Justin Tuck.