On February 18th, 2023; I was blessed with the opportunity to talk with, and interview former NFL Cornerback Oliver Davis. We talked about the totality of his playing career including the fulfillment of it; his transitioning out of the NFL, and his teaching and coaching career.
Oliver Davis was drafted in the 4th round by the Cleveland Browns in 1977 and also playing for the Cincinnati Bengals totaling a 6 year career, while also having 11 interceptions for his career.
I firstly wanted to talk to him on what it was like playing in the NFL. He emphasized that “It was a blessing” and “A dream come true” being able to play. He mentioned how all his hard work payed off and everything was falling into place. I was also curious to see if he was content with the totality of his playing career and if he felt he put forth his best effort to maximize his potential. He looked at me and said “I played hard everyday” giving it his best everyday; but saying” when I was done; I was done” saying he was out of gas and looking at himself in the mirror in his last year and saying “this was it”; while being thankful he got out when he did and leaving as healthy as he could. I asked about the transition leaving the NFL being that some can’t completely pivot after leaving the sport. He told me that thankfully to going to college at an HBCU in Tennessee State, saying that his coach told him he wasn’t concerned about his next 4 years in school, but the next 40 years of his life. He mentioned how he got a degree in Physical Education and became a certified teacher where he then coached and taught for 27 years, and that from his time spent playing in the NFL and time spent coaching and teaching, he stands very happy on where he stands at this stage in life. Next; I asked him how he’d do if he was able to play in todays league, and he didn’t hesitate to say “I’d do excellent” while saying he also could’ve lasted a lot longer playing with the safety rules in place in todays game. Lastly; I asked him throughout his life so far; what has been the biggest lesson. He said that accountability and being responsible for who you are and what you’re going to do has been a prominent view in his life. Saying that you have to take responsibility for putting the work in to become who you want to become.
(Me and Mr. Oliver Davis)
Meeting Mr. Davis was a honor and I’m very glad I got to meet him and pick his brain. Mr Davis to me seemed like a very stand up guy with a good heart. I would love to continue growing my relationship with Mr Davis and wish him the best in his future.
Ojore Brown