The Atlanta Falcons traded Eric Saubert to the Patriots for a conditional seventh-round pick earlier this month. He was drafted by the Falcons in 2017 out of Drake University, making him the first player since 1983 to be drafted in the NFL.
Last season, he record five catches for 48 yards and he played in 16 games. Get to know the new Patriot with a lighting round of questions below.
What was your impression of Patriots fans before coming here?
Before coming here, I know that Boston fans are a loyal bunch and rowdy as well. I remember playing here a couple of years ago with Atlanta and we came out the tunnel, it was just screaming and rowdy as can be. It was pretty cool.
You were the first player in almost 35 years to be drafted out of Drake. What did that moment feel like?
That was a special day, obviously. It's just a culmination of your work that makes you proud of it. There's still a lot of work to do. That's one special moment in the journey. Hopefully it'll get better.
What did that mean for your school and program to have that kind of moment?
I hope they take pride in that. I'm sure they do. I still keep in touch with coaches and stuff, so I'm pretty sure they're proud of me.
Who did you root for as a kid?
I grew up in Chicago so I was a big Bears fan growing up.
Who was your football idol?
I loved watching Julius Peppers. He was different. It was kind of cool last year and the year before actually playing against him. He's out of the league now, but that was a special moment for me. He brought a lot of intensity to the game and a special athleticism that is like really cool to watch.
Do you remember your first big play in football?
I didn't start playing until high school. My first big play, let me see. I caught a touchdown my sophomore year. I was like this is pretty cool.
Does that feeling ever go away?
Every time you score I think that feeling comes back.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
I went to the Bahamas two years ago, and it was pretty awesome. Swam with the pigs and some sharks.
Do you have a guilty pleasure TV show?
Probably "New Girl" on Netflix.
Favorite movie?
I love movies, so this is tough for me. Probably "The Departed."
Favorite meal?
Meat and potatoes.
Do you have any hobbies outside of football?
I've got a dog, so playing with him and taking care of him.
What's your dog's name?
Abe.
What kind of dog?
He's a husky.
How long have you had him?
He's coming up on two years.
They're very high-energy. Having to take care of him after a long day of work, it must be a lot.
It's rough, but I get help with it sometimes. He's a good boy.
If you could meet any person in the world, who would it be?
I feel like I should know this. People ask me this all the time. Maybe like, Michael Jordan.
What advice do you have for your teenage self?
Just keep working because it's going to pay off.
