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Blogging The Boys got the chance to interview undrafted free agent David Hedelin out of Purdue.
While it is no secret that the Dallas Cowboys have one of the best offensive lines in football, if not the best, it's always important to add talent behind the starters to make sure that the unit has good depth. That's why Dallas is bringing in Purdue's David Hedelin as an undrafted free agent. While it's up in the air if Hedelin can make the final roster, it should be said that there will three Purdue football alums with the team this summer in Hedelin, sixth-round pick Anthony Brown, and defensive end Ryan Russell.
Hedelin's story is quite interesting. He was born in Sweden and played two years at the City College of San Francisco before transferring to Purdue. After his two years of JUCO ball, he was ranked as the ninth-best JUCO offensive tackle. He's played both guard and tackle in his football career. Here's what J.J. Prince, Purdue's right tackle at the time, said about Hedelin:
"He has tree trunks for legs. He's got a nice aggression. He's pretty strong. It's a matter of channeling that into technique."
Fortunately for myself and the entire staff of Blogging The Boys, Hedelin took time out of his busy schedule to complete an interview with us. Let's get to it.
Blogging The Boys: What sports team were you a fan of as a kid?
Hedelin: I did not grow up watching football so I never developed a special bond to a team in the NFL.
BTB: What other teams called you for a tryout?
The Cowboys were the first team that called so I immediately took that offer. Falcons, Commanders and Chiefs also called a few minutes later.
BTB: What is your biggest strength?
Hedelin: I'm athletic and tough.
BTB: What is something you need to work on?
Hedelin:I need to work on my technique.
BTB: Who do you compare your game to?
Hedelin: I've been watching both LT's from the Cowboys and the Browns.
BTB: What can you bring to this Cowboys team?
Hedelin: A good attitude with excellent work ethic and the will to never quit.
BTB: What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?
Hedelin: Everything I've done so far has been more than anyone (even me) expected when I came to the U.S. I've always wanted to prove myself since I'm Swedish and I hope to get rid of that stereotype. Also, obtaining my degree from Purdue University is something that I value highly.
BTB: Who's your favorite football player of all time?
Hedelin: I have not watched football for many years but the best tackle out there is, in my opinion, Tyron Smith. I'm grateful to be able to learn from him.
BTB: If you make the team, what goal would you like to accomplish?
Hedelin: I want to win games and be out there competing every weekend. Long term goal is to become the best OL out there.
BTB: What is something you need to keep doing to show your importance to this coaching staff?
Hedelin: I need to improve my technique. That is my weakness.
BTB: How early did the Cowboys express interest in you?
Hedelin: I spoke to Coach Pollack a few days before the draft.
BTB: Are you friends with any current Cowboys?
Hedelin: Yes, I played football with Ryan Russell and Anthony Brown while at Purdue University.
BTB: What do you think of the Cowboys' offensive line?
Hedelin: The best one in the league.
BTB: Do you fit better in the NFL as a guard or a tackle?
Hedelin: I play offensive line, so that does not matter.
BTB: What are your expectations for the 2016 season?
Hedelin: To win every single game and to become Super Bowl champions.
BTB: What will be your role?
Hedelin: I want to play but if not, I will give the team great looks every week in order to get them ready. I will do everything it takes in order for this team to win games.
BTB: Tell us an interesting story about your pre-draft process.
Hedelin: Since I was not able to showcase my athletic abilities at the Pro Day, I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity at the Dallas Cowboys organization.
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With rookie minicamps set to begin in just under a few days, the Cowboys' coaching staff will get a real opportunity to see how the Swede matches up against the other rookies on this roster. But if Hedelin can prove to be versatile, and play guard or tackle if asked upon, there is a high chance that the staff will find a space on this roster for him. I'd like to thank David for taking the time out of his busy schedule to answer my questions. I wish David nothing but the best!
Follow me on Twitter: RyanRattyNFL
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