Juran Bolden, of the Tampa Bay
Buccaneers talks to us about his NFL experience. Juran Bolden was
born in Tampa, Florida now a super star NFL player for his home
town. He was drafted with the 127th
overall pic (4th round) of the 1996 NFL draft. Juran Bolden was
given a career opportunity that most dream about. Signed as a free
agent by Tampa Bay on March 29, 2005. Juran in the beginning had his
eyes on track. He really did not think of his talents in football.
However, someone recognized his football talents in Mississippi at
Mississippi Deleta Junior College. He earned All-American and
All-Mississippi JUCO first team honors and named the Defensive
Player of the Year in the region. No more second guessing Juran
Bolden has what it takes to be a pro.
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Football players have special moves
on the field . Well, Juran solidified the nickel back position on
the Tampa Bay defense in his first season with the Buccaneers. It’s
amazing what can take place on a rectangular field with two
goalposts. Not to mention the injuries that the players endure. The
players have to be strong and flexible with bodies capable of
enduring strain and lets’ face it hard labor. It’s fascinating that
remarkable plays are still made under all the kicks, tosses, and
tackles. Juran Bolden has added 41 special team tackles. He played
in 93 career games with 17 starts. Juran has also played in three
playoff games, totaling five tackles and one pass defense. He is one
body of mass of force. Juran is also quick on his feet. He even
established two state junior college track records with a 100 meter
time of 10.28 and 200 meter clocking of 20.9. Track was this mans
first love and he has proven that his running abilities have
enhanced his plays on the field.
| Sounds like Juran Bolden is living
a dream come true. Juran even had the opportunity to play in Canada
(CFL) team. Juran said, “CFL was a faster pace game and very
enjoyable.” So not only has this player been able to experience
football but he has a unique experience in Canada. Juran has team
opportunity that is very impressive. Signed by the Atlanta Falcons
in 2002, Singed by Jacksonville Jaguars in 2004. This player also
garnered All-State first team status with 55 tackles, six
interceptions and one returned for a touchdown in his earlier years.
With no injuries reported this season for the Buccaneers tells you
they are holding down the field. When you think of all the armor the
players have to put on weighing about 25-30 lbs minimum seems like
another physical challenge. |
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| This game is certainly formulated for
the tough skin. Juran Bolden has proven a staying power with the
NFL. Center Stage had a chance to speak with him as he was basking
outside near his swimming pool at home in Tampa Bay, Florida. |
Center Stage:
Did you always have a desire to play football when you were growing
up?
Juran:
No as a matter a fact I was very much interested in track. I ran
track during high school. I’m very thankful for having this great
opportunity.
Center Stage:
How does it feel to play for your home town were you were born?
Juran:
It’s nice and wonderful to be around family. Like last year I was
able to attend my family reunion that was held here in Florida.
Center Stage:
What was so different about playing over in Canada?
Juran:
Playing for the CFL is very different. The game is at a faster pace
and fun. The style of the game makes it easy to put up 100 points.
Its wide open you have a lot of run and twelve men are on the field.
It’s a lot different. I played for fun with the CFL.
Center Stage:
Tell us about the play against the Atlanta Falcons year 2002.
Juran:
That was a memorable play when I intercepted a return for a touch
down. The Buccaneers had the Falcons number that game.
Center Stage:
How often do you practice or work out?
Juran:
We usually practice from 9:00am-12:00 noon. It’s really not a bad
schedule.
Center Stage:
What are you most thankful for?
Juran:
I’m thankful for getting the opportunity to play and just being here
in Florida. Like right now setting by the pool the weather is great.
Also being around my family and friends. What I’m really thankful
for is my wife and our new baby on the way.
Juran Bolden, a NFL pro and a
family man with a gift to play football…a humble player they don’t
come any better. |