Whether it’s film study or training like a boxer, Ray Edwards is looking for an edge to be the “best defensive end ever to play this game.” Edwards, the 23-year-old who was drafted on the fourth round in 2005 by the Vikings, made that statement last week at the team’s mini-camp.
He has been outspoken and confident this spring. After two seasons of learning and starting a total of 13 games, he now looks like he will be a permanent starter. But Edwards wants to be more than just an NFL regular.
He wants to break Michael Strahan’s NFL single season sack record of 22.5. He had five sacks last season and three the year before.
Edwards said last week he felt “under rated” coming out of high school in Cincinnati and after leaving Purdue following his junior season to play for the Vikings. Hard work, training and confidence have brought him along further than ever and he asked last week, “If you don’t believe in yourself, who will? …”
The 6-foot-5 Edwards said he’s gained weight since joining the Vikings and is now at 270 pounds. He retains or perhaps has added to the explosiveness off the line of scrimmage that starting with his rookie year distinguished him as a pass rusher.
“I do boxing training, and work on my feet and my hand speed,” Edwards said. “And …film study of past defensive ends that have been definitely successful in this league. Like Strahan. …I’ve watched a lot of his film. Lots of Reggie White film. Chris Doleman. Simeon Rice. Dwight Feeney. I’ve watched all of those guys, studying their film to see what they were doing to be successful at this level.”
Edwards doesn’t expect to make a second career out of boxing but he’s convinced that the training has made him better. Improved foot coordination and balance, hand speed, and shoulder strength, all make Edwards a more imposing end, ready to attack blockers this fall.
Experience has contributed to his development, too. He said he’s learned how to better read offensive formations and has improved at handling different blocks.
Edwards said in the past he has been trying to “make a name for himself.” Sounds like he’s determined to do just that.