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OL T.J. Downing (official thread)

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I'm curious as to what the situation was surrounding TJ's exit from the NFL. The excused absence and following release doesn't seem to make sense for an All Big 10 performer who had prototypical size, ability, and brains. It just doesn't seem to add up.
 
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senorbuckeye;948555; said:
I'm curious as to what the situation was surrounding TJ's exit from the NFL. The excused absence and following release doesn't seem to make sense for an All Big 10 performer who had prototypical size, ability, and brains. It just doesn't seem to add up.
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From a local radio interview he gave a few weeks bag, his body wasn't handling the high altitude during training camp, and he was just shedding weight, unable to put it back on, and he wasn't able to compete as a 275-pound NFL lineman. He knew that unless something changed, the same thing would happen next training camp, so he moved on for now.
 
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BayBuck;948565; said:
From a local radio interview he gave a few weeks bag, his body wasn't handling the high altitude during training camp, and he was just shedding weight, unable to put it back on, and he wasn't able to compete as a 275-pound NFL lineman. He knew that unless something changed, the same thing would happen next training camp, so he moved on for now.
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That's interesting. So, he can't keep the weight on to be a competitive NFL lineman? I can't say I've come across that issue too many times. Best of TJ in whatever endeavor he chooses.
 
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In his latest audio show, TJ addresses his Cardinals experience and differences between the Buckeyes and the NFL

He says he hasn't ruled out the NFL....he is still contracted with the Cardinals and will probaby give it another shot...needs to put more weight on first.

He has started a chemical company (Downing chemical company)....product mixes with gasoline to reduce emissions

He also purchased a Bar and Grill in downtown Cbus (Ringside Cafe)

Media Player

Ringside Cafe

Ringside Cafe in Columbus, OH - AOL City Guide

Very impressive.
 
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Downing chose Buckeyes despite his Wolverine dad

By JOHN VARGO Tribune Chronicle



WARREN ? Walt Downing lived in the trenches of the maize and blue. Michigan was in the blood of the All-America offensive lineman.

This feeling matriculated through his son, T.J., who became an outstanding offensive lineman at Canton GlenOak High School.

He, like his father, rooted for the Wolverines.

When T.J. was pursued by Ohio State and Michigan for his services beginning in the fall of 2002, most on-lookers felt perceive Michigan would have the upper hand.

?They were my second choice,? said T.J. at Thursday?s 10th anniversary salute to The Game ? Ohio State vs. Michigan ? at DiVieste Banquet Room in Warren. ?Ohio State paid more attention and showed me more love. Michigan probably expected my dad to do the recruiting for them. I?m an independent-type person. I?ve always made decisions on my own, but I?ve used my dad as counsel. When I counseled him on the situation, Ohio State was the best fit for me.

?I kind of fell in love with coach (Jim) Tressel, his style and the attitude he brought to the game. It was a no-brainer. Looking back on it now, we made the right decision.?
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Now, T.J. is a successful businessman in Columbus. So far, it?s been quite profitable for the former OSU lineman.

?If he continues on the path and things continue to escalate like he?s doing and things are going to happen, I don?t think the NFL is the direction he?s going to purse any more,? Walt said.

It?s a viable option for T.J.

?If it gets to the point where I?m doing better than the rookie salary in the NFL, that?s a decision I?m going to have to make to further my career,? he said. ?For me, the glory really has been had ? going to Ohio State and playing in the great Michigan rivalries, the great bowl games. Going to the NFL is about making a paycheck, it?s about supporting your family.

?If I can do that in another arena and not beat my head against a wall everyday of my life, then I feel comfortable doing it.?
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Tribune-Chronicle
 
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Wow. We get so pumped up about the game of football we can forget the reality of the player's life, "banging your head against the wall". Especially a lineman who is probably never going to play in the Pro Bowl.

The sports fan in me would love to see him play at some point if he wants to, but if not, isn't it great that he has some options and is doing something about his life.

Great video of him at the end of the 2006 Fiest Bowl, along with Bobby Carpenter, dumping Gatorade on Tressel.

Nice last game, huh?
 
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