Fantasy Football Impact: Interview with Minnesota Vikings' WR Bernard Berrian

Fantasy football has undoubtedly changed the landscape of professional football. Over the last few decades—particularly with the rise of the internet—these alterations have grown seemingly exponentially.

Millions of dollars and hours are spent on fantasy football, yet, as fans, we frequently have difficulties imagining how fantasy football affects the players. The superhero-like statuses that these men garner often make this task more difficult, as we sometimes get so caught up in the game that we fail to realize that, unlike most games, this one is based on reality.

Nowadays, most fans seem quick to judge and critique everything NFL players do, both on and off the field, yet very seldom do we see the same amount of praise. Many often respond to this fact by claiming that, as fans, they have a right to criticize and even boo their team's favorite players.

Fantasy football, which has taken the level of fan involvement to an entirely unique level, has only perpetuated this notion.

But is this truly the case?

How do NFL players feel about fantasy football and the way it has altered fans' involvement and attitudes?

For part two of my "Fantasy Impact" series, I spoke with Vikings' WR Bernard Berrian to answer this question and find out more about the star receiver.

Bernard Berrian Interview

Q: How familiar with fantasy football were you when you came into the NFL, and how familiar are you with it now?

A: Fantasy football has been around for awhile now, but I think that it has really gained popularity with the growth of the Internet. I knew a little bit about it when I came to the league, but have become much more familiar with it over the past few years.

Q: Do you personally play fantasy football?

A: I don't play, but a lot of my teammates and friends do. I think it’s a fun way to get more involved in the game, and get some friendly competition going. I might have to start playing next year.

Q: What is the feeling of the team and players in the NFL in general regarding the game?

A: Yeah, I know a lot of guys in the league who are playing. There are also guys who don’t play and don’t pay much attention to it. It’s really across the board within the league.

Q: How do you think fantasy football has changed the game? How many times do you hear fans yell "I have you on my fantasy team"?

A: Fantasy football has given fans a chance to get more involved in the game. I think it has increased fan participation and enthusiasm. It gives them a chance to become the "coach" and control the game, which is something that they wouldn’t traditionally have access to.

I hear fans say "I have you on my fantasy team" all the time! I think fans that are playing fantasy football are really connecting with players now as opposed to just being fans of teams.

Q: You are obviously on Twitter. What do you think of players using Twitter and do you feel it gives you a more direct way to touch base with your fans than going through the media? Did your coaches warn you against speaking out on Twitter?

A: Yes the coaches did address Twitter. My feeling on the subject is that we are all adults. I am 100 percent capable of knowing what is appropriate and what is inappropriate. Twitter is a great way to reach out to my fans. It has really increased players' fan bases. People who weren't necessarily fans or followers of certain players now are because they get a closer look into a player's life, and get to know who that player really is like.

Q: You have struggled to stay healthy so far in 2009, but what sort of chemistry and success do you expect to have in the future with Brett Favre at the helm?

A: I think that, despite my injuries this year, Brett and I have had some great success and we will only get stronger as the season progresses.

Q: Do you have any pre-game rituals?

A: Absolutely! I must have two showers before the game. I also pray twice and I have to have my iPod.

Q: You were born in Spain. Can you speak any Spanish?

A: I actually left Spain when I was still very young, so what little Spanish I may have known has since left me. I’d love to learn the language though.

Q: You began your career in the NFL in a backup and special teams role. How did not immediately being in the spotlight prepare you for your current stardom?

A: I have always been about working hard to fulfill my role on the team, be it a large higher profile position, or as a backup. Every player is an important component to the success of the team. As the wider receiver for the Vikings, I approach my job with the same focus and intensity that I have always approached football, regardless of my position.

Q: How much time do players spend "working" i.e. practicing, watching film, working out, etc.?

A: My typical daily routine consists of arriving at the facility at 7:45 a.m. I usually get treatment, practice, watch film, and lift weights. I tend to leave the facility around 5:00 p.m.

Q: What is your fastest ever 40 yard dash time?

A: My fastest 40 was 4.41 seconds.

Q: A lot of fans don't understand players have a life other than playing football. What do you enjoy doing other than playing football?

A: I really enjoy traveling and I'd like to do a lot more of it in the future. Most people don't know that I play the drums and I am learning how to play the piano. Whenever possible, I love spending time with my family.

Q: Anything you want to let your fans know, fantasy football-related or not?

A: I appreciate every one of you for taking the time to get to know me a little bit better. This is a special season for the Vikings and our fans. Thank you all very much.