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In developing its elite faculty, FBU searched the country to find football’s top gurus at each position who all have NFL playing experience, NFL coaching experience or instructional experience to today’s NFL stars. FBU’s instructors are long time NFL coaches, Pro-Bowl athletes and Super Bowl Champions.
But more importantly than their NFL roots, FBU found instructors have a “passion to teach” and a passion to pass on their knowledge to the next generation of great football stars.
Unique to our mini-camp is this elite faculty who will be traveling to our 15 camp locations to provide their life of learning in football to our invited athletes over three intense days. They are not providing autographs like other camps, they are providing the primary instruction, and will lead the training at each position. Besides serving as instructors, they are mentors, technicians, and resources to each of our athletes during the three day mini-camp.
Over the course of the year, most of our instructors provide individual instruction to top athletes including NFL athletes or elite college athletes training for the NFL Combine. Many will travel to San Antonio as coaches to work with nation’s top prep football players at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl on NBC which featured the like of Reggie Bush and Vince Young when they were high school seniors. They have agreed to serve as FBU instructors because they believe that the young athletes invited to FBU, who they will personally train over three intense days, will be accomplished in football , committed to football, and passionate about receiving this first class, one of a kind instruction. They are all excited for the upcoming mini-camp season.
Here is a rundown of who will be providing you with your FBU education
Instructor Bios for Quarterback University (QBU)
Professor of Quarterbacks - Tom Martinez, mentor to three Time Super Bowl Winner Tom Brady and instructor to NFL Number One Draft Choice, JaMarcus Russell
The original quarterback guru, coach Martinez has taught the quarterback position during most of his 32 years of football coaching. Martinez is the mentor of three time Super Bowl winner Tom Brady of the New England Patriots. Brady works with Martinez in the off season to insure that his quarterback mechanics are up to speed.
"Tom [Martinez] is a key reason why I've been fortunate to have success in college and the NFL," Tom Brady says. "I think the world of him professionally and personally. I still consult with him, and he tunes me up when I need him."
JaMarcus Russell, the number one overall pick in the 2007 NFL draft, also turned to coach Martinez to help him prepare for the rigors of NFL. Besides instructing Russell, Martinez created Russell’s phenomenal pro-day work out where Russell wowed NFL scouts with his improved poise and mechanics and raw ability.
During his time as a quarterback coach, Martinez worked with other top NFL quarterbacks and top Arena Football League quarterback Tony Graziano. While coaching at the College of San Mateo, Martinez compiled over 1,100 career victories which stood for several years as an all-time Junior College record.
Professor of Quarterbacks - Larry Kennan, former NFL Quarterback Coach and instructor to Tony Romo and Eli Manning
The man who has arguably trained more of the NFL’s top quarterbacks than any other guru comes to FBU as one of the University’s chief instructors for the 2008 mini-camps.
Coach Larry Kennan has trained some of the top current and former NFL signal callers over the last several years including: Dallas Cowboys Tony Romo, New York Giants Eli Manning, New Orleans Saint Drew Brees, San Francisco 49er Alex Smith, Cleveland Browns Tim Couch, New York Jet's Chad Pennington, Atlanta Falcon Byron Leftwich, Detroit Lions Drew Stanton, Carolina Panthers Chris Weinke. Former NFL signal callers who Coach Kennan coached or tutored include Jim Plunkett, John Elway, Jeff George, and Drew Bledsoe.
Kennan has become a master at preparing the NFL ready quarterback for the annual NFL’s Combine. Since 1999, Kennan has trained 11 quarterbacks who attended the NFL’s premier showcase. Six of Kennan’s QB’s were taken in the first round, with three becoming the number one overall selection (Alex Smith, Eli Manning and Tim Couch). Kennan also conducted and supervised his client’s pro days where they shined in front of top NFL scouts just several weeks before the NFL Draft.
Kennan’s coaching career began with two league and one state championship at the high school level. After moving up to the college stage, Kennan made a name for himself as an offensive genius. He became the offensive coordinator at UNLV in 1973 as the Rebels posted a 12-1 record to go along with their high octane offense. Serving as the offensive coordinator for Southern Methodist University, Kennan guided the Mustangs to the number one rated pass offense in the nation in 1978.
In the NFL, Kennan was the Quarterback coach for the Oakland Raiders for six years, including their 1982 Super Bowl season. In the 1980’s and 1990’s, Kennan went on to become the offensive coordinator or Quarterback Coach for four different NFL teams including the Indianapolis Colts, the Seattle Seahawks, the New England Patriots and the Oakland Raiders. As the Offensive coordinator and Quarterback Coach for the Seattle Seahawks from 1992 1994, Kennan’s offense led the league in rushing with 2,015 yards (1993) and his quarterback Rick Mirer completed the 3rd most passes by a rookie in NFL history. As the Oakland Raiders Offensive Coordinator and Quarterback Coach in 1996, Coach Kennan’s starting quarterback, Jeff Hostetler, had the highest QB rating of his career (83.2). As the New England Patriots Offensive Coordinator in 1997, Coach Kennan’s starting quarterback, Drew Bledsoe, achieved the highest quarterback rating of his career (87.7).
While training top NFL quarterbacks, Larry Kennan founded the NFL Coaches Association and served as the executive director of the NFL Coaches Association. Coach Kennan brings over 30 years of football coaching experience to FBU. Coach Kennan is excited to bring his knowledge to all the invited quarterbacks at FBU.
Special Guest Professor Ron Jaworski, former NFL Quarterback and Monday Night Football Analyst
Working as a roving guest lecturer at some of this year’s mini-camps will be Ron Jaworski, one of the smartest and fiercest quarterbacks to ever play in the NFL. FBU is delighted to add the former NFL MVP and Philadelphia Eagles quarterback as a guest lecturer in 2008.
Since retiring from the gridiron in 1990, Jaworski has brought NFL broadcast analysis to new heights from the perspective of a former signal caller. Currently, Jaworski serves as the lead color commentator for NFL’s Monday Night Football broadcasts on ESPN.
After an impressive career at Youngstown State University and a great showing at the Senior Bowl, Jaworski was drafted in the second round by the Los Angeles Rams. In 1977, Jaworski was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles where his quarterback abilities began to blossom under Eagle’s head coach Dick Vermeil.
With Jaworski behind center, the Eagles quickly became a power in the NFC East as they advanced to the playoffs for four straight seasons. In 1980, Jaworski led Philadelphia to an NFC championship and the team’s first ever appearance in the Super Bowl. Jaworski finished that season as the NFL’s number one rated passer. He was selected to the Pro Bowl and was awarded the NFL’s Most Valuable Player Award.
Although later eclipsed by the likes of iron men such as Brett Favre, Jaworski’s 116 consecutive games set the NFL record and also set the standard in quarterback durability and toughness.
From the NFL quarterback position, Jaworski had always been a student of the game. His status as one of the NFL top minds, however, only grew after his playing days were over.
Jaworski began his distinguished broadcast career on the television show “NFL Match-Up”. The show was unique because it provided Jaworski and fans with a breakdown of the actual NFL game film coaches use to prep for their opponents. With this “all access pass” to the film rooms of all 32 NFL teams and their coaches, Jaworski had access to the greatest minds in all of Pro Football. From this unique perspective, Jaworski started a television football tradition. Each week, Jaworski breaks down NFL game film for millions of viewers, providing insights about offensive and defensive schemes from the Quarterback and offensive coordinator perspective.
Now bringing his vast knowledge to invited athletes at FBU, Jaworski is an exciting addition to the FBU academic team. Jaworski’s off-field curriculum will provide FBU students with a guide to attacking defenses and defensive backs from the quarterback position in an effort to stay one step ahead of their competition.
QBU Coach Steve DeBerg
A veteran of over 207 NFL games Steve DeBerg brings a wealth of knowledge to the campus of Football University.
DeBerg’s pro career lasted 21 years and spanned over three decades. DeBerg played his college ball at San Jose State University. Leaving a lasting impression during his time in college DeBerg is a member of the Spartan Stadium Ring of Honor.
In 1977, DeBerg was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys. The Oakland native would go on to play for several NFL teams. DeBerg made a name for himself while suiting up for the San Francisco 49ers where he became the first QB to master Bill Walsh’s vaunted West Coast Offense.
Some of DeBerg’s best years came in the early 90s as a member of the Kansas City Chiefs. DeBerg led the Chiefs to consecutive playoff seasons and set some club passing records along the way.
DeBerg passed for over 34,000 yards, and ranks in the top 20 all time for passing attempts, completions, and yards passing. During his time in the NFL DeBerg learned from some of the best coaches in NFL history including: Bill Walsh, Don Shula, and Dan Reeves.
After his playing days were done DeBerg moved on to the coaching world, where he served as the QB coach for the New York Giants and Atlanta Falcons, head coach for the Indiana Firebirds of the Arena League, and as a assistant coach for the Tampa Bay Storm. DeBerg recently opened up his own training program where he tutored NFL stars like Dallas Cowboys’ Pro Bowler Tony Romo.
Instructor Bios for Defensive Back University (DBU)
Professor of Defensive Backs - Perry Williams, former New York Giant cornerback and two time Super Bowl Champion
The defensive backs will be taught by 11 year NFL veteran defensive back Perry Williams. Williams, a two-time Super Bowl winner with the New York Giants, was one of the first modern cornerbacks to showcase all the tools big, strong, quick, and fast (really fast). His cornerback ability blended physical efficiency and precision. His technique was considered flawless by NFL experts.
Williams received a dual scholarship to attend North Carolina State University, where he played football as well as ran track. A three time letter winner for the Wolf Pack from 1980-1982 in football, Williams’ track career is just as storied. In 1980 Williams qualified for the Olympics, prior to the U.S boycott of the games. In 1982 Williams ran the 200 meters at a world record pace, a pace later eclipsed by a young runner named Carl Lewis.
Williams was drafted in the 7th round of the 1983 NFL draft by the New York Giants and would go on to earn NFL All-Rookie Team Honors. Former Giants coach Bill Parcells calls Williams “the fastest player he has ever coached”. At Super Bowl XXI Williams started at cornerback to earn his first of two Super Bowl rings.
Today, Williams teaches his flawless technique to the nation’s top prep defensive backs who display lock down potential. Williams tutored top prep defensive back Will Hill from New Jersey this past year. Hill will play at the University of Florida next year.
Williams advanced curriculum will stress technique and an awareness of what every defensive back needs to know in every coverage scheme. Williams’s lives by the philosophy that “Pressure is something you feel when you don’t know what to do.” When the mini-camp weekend is over, every defensive back will know what to do. On an island in lock down mode, every defensive back will feel the confidence and have the instincts natural to top defensive backs.
Running Back University Professor: Ricky Ervins
Ricky Ervins was highly skilled and dedicated running back throughout his career, in which he won both a Super Bowl and a Rose Bowl. In the National Football League Ervins used his explosiveness and pure skill to become a major threat out of the backfield for the Washington Redskins and he was a key cog in the team's 1992 Super Bowl championship. In college Ervins led the University of Southern California to a Rose Bowl victory. His touchdown run was the deciding factor in the game and he was named the games’ Most Valuable Player. Ervins also ranks second all-time in USC history with an amazing eight consecutive 100-yard rushing performances. After retiring from his playing career in 1995, Ervins founded Xtreme Xplosion, a company dedicated to showing the proper techniques and skills needed to be a top grade running back. Ervins is excited and proud to show this technique on a national basis at Football University.
Instructor Bios for Punter and Kicker University (PKU)
Professor of Punters and Kickers - Bill Renner, former Green Bay Packer Punter
Renowned kicking instructor Bill Renner, considered the best kicking and punting guru in the country, will be coaching the punters and kickers this spring. Renner is a former NFL punter who played with the Green Bay Packers after a successful college career with Virginia Tech. Renner has taught kickers since 1980 and has run very successful instructional camps and personal instruction for special team’s players since 1986. Coach Renner has been sending his students to the NFL in droves and his NFL alumni list now include Arizona Cardinals Pro Bowl kicker Neil Rackers, Seattle Seahawks kicker Josh Brown, Cincinnati Bengals kicker Shayne Graham, Arizona Cardinals Mike Barr, New Orleans Saints punter Steve Weatherford, Cincinnati Bengal punter Kyle Larson, and Baltimore Raven punter Sam Koch.
An effective kicking and punting game can be the difference between winning and losing a football game. Coach Renner and his advanced curriculum will be unique and cutting edge for all FBU athletes and they all will leave a better punter or kicker.
Instructor Bios for FBU’s School for Physical Performance
Professor of Physical Ability Ken Croner, Director of NFL Training at Athletes Performance and Personal Instructor to NFL Quarterback great Brett Favre.
FBU athletes will be treated to classroom session with one of the nation’s top speed and strength gurus in Ken Croner, who currently serves as the Director of NFL Training at Athlete’s Performance, the leading Speed and Strength facility in the United States. In 2005, 25% of 1st round NFL draft choices trained with Croner at Athlete’s Performance. Croner is certified by the National Strength & Conditioning Association, USA Weightlifting, and the Collegiate Strength & Conditioning Association. Coach Croner spent 5 years as a Strength & Conditioning coach for University of Norte Dame. In the NFL, Croner has worked with the Minnesota Vikings and the Green Bay Packers. In the summer Croner travels to Mississippi where he works as the personal trainer for quarterback great Brett Favre.
Croner’s curriculum is based on the latest speed and strength training techniques used by today’s NFL athletes. Croner has a unique ability to apply this curriculum to athletes of all ages with varied physical development.
Wide Receiver University Professor: Ed McCaffrey
Ed McCaffrey established himself as one of the top receivers in the National Football League during his professional career that spanned over a decade and included Super Bowl rings and a Pro Bowl appearance. The All-American out of Stanford University was drafted into the NFL in 1991 and he would go on to become known as one of the best route-runners in the pros. Playing the majority of his NFL career with the Denver Broncos, McCaffrey possessed an unerring ability to make the tough catch in clutch situations and he became a key target for Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway. McCaffrey was a big part of the Broncos back to back Super Bowl victories in 1998 and 1999 and he earned a Pro-Bowl selection in 1998. McCaffrey was also a member of the San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl winning team. The veteran of thirteen NFL seasons is excited to work with the young FBU wide outs at our Denver camp.
Wide Receiver University Professor: Andre Rison
One of the most skilled receivers of all-time, Andre Rison played 11 productive seasons in the NFL in which he earned five Pro-Bowl selections and won a Super Bowl. The Michigan State product was a first round draft pick in the 1989 NFL Entry Draft, taken 22nd overall by the Indianapolis Colts. Throuhgout his career Rison displayed his elite skill set and superb technique. He played his most productive seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, where he earned four of his five Pro-Bowl selections in the early 1990's. In 1993 Rison led the NFL with 15 receiving touchdowns. He would go on to win a Super Bowl ring with the Green Bay Packers in 1996, and he scored the first points of the game on a 54-yard touchdown catch. By the time he retired following the 2000 season, Rison tallied 84 career NFL touchdowns and over 10,000 career receiving yards. Rison brings his passion to teach football, along with his elite skill set and great technique to Wide Receiver University.
Linebacker University Professor: LeVon Kirkland:
LeVon Kirkland was a massive presence at inside linebacker throughout his 11 seasons in the NFL. Kirkland had the size, the speed and the agility, but most importantly he possessed the skills that produced an All-Pro career. Kirkland was leader on the field and he anchored the Steelers defense for nearly a decade. Kirkland helped lead the Pittsburgh Steelers to Super Bowl XXX and he earned two Pro Bowl selections (1996,1997) in his career. Beyond his all-pro career, Kirkland is also known for his qualities as a leader and mentor to up and coming linebackers and he looks forward to working with the same type of linebackers at FBU.
Lineman University Professor: Guy McIntyre:
One of the most skilled offensive linemen to ever play in the National Football League, Guy McIntyre played thirteen seasons at guard. McIntyre is known most for his years protecting the legendary Joe Montana during the San Francisco 49ers glory years. He played the majority of his career with the 49ers and earned five consecutive Pro Bowl selections as a 49er. McIntyre helped San Francisco win three Super Bowls during his time with the team. The All-Pro lineman shares a passion to teach young lineman the skill he used to succeed in his career.
Lineman University Professor: Irv Eatman
Irv Eatman played 11 seasons in the NFL as an offensive tackle. A highly skilled technician on the offensive line, Eatman began his pro career with the Kansas City Chiefs in 1986. Over his eleven years in the league, Eatman would also have stints playing for the New York Jets, Los Angeles Rams, Atlanta Falcons and Houston Oilers. In college Eatman attended UCLA where he was a two-time Lombardi Award semi-finalist, three-time honorable mention All-America and two-time All-Pac 10 selection. He played on the Bruins Rose Bowl Champion squad as a senior following the '82 season. Eatman has also served as a lineman coach for the Oakland Raiders in the NFL and also served on the Offensive Line coaching staffs for the Kansas City Chiefs, Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers. He brings his wealth of football knowledge, elite skills and flawless techinique to Lineman University.
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