Chat Transcript
CBS SportsLine.com
August 9, 2001

Brown ranks first in the AFL history in receiving touchdowns (228) and second in receptions (672). (AFL)

Arena Football League receiver Eddie Brown of the Indiana Firebirds joined CBS SportsLine.com for a chat.

Brown, widely considered one of the best AFL receivers ever, is having another extraordinary year for the Firebirds. He led the league with 45 regular season touchdowns. During the regular season he had 1,534 receiving yards and 37 touchdowns and ran for 70 yards and eight touchdowns.

Brown ranks first in the AFL history in receiving touchdowns (265), first in career receptions (790) and second receiving yards (10,747). He was named AFL player of the year in 1994, Offensive player of the year in 1996, and Arena Bowl XIII's Most Valuable Player in 1999.

His team finished second in the Central Division of the American Conference with a 9-5 record. Last Sunday the Firebirds defeated Tampa Bay 68-31, handing Tampa Bay their worst lost in fanchise history.

To find out more information about the Indiana Firebirds, log on to www.firebirds.com.

Want an autographed "Touchdown" Eddie Brown Football? Click here to find out how to get one FREE!

Eddie Brown: Hello! Thank you for your support and your questions!

Question: What made you decide to play in the AFL?

Eddie Brown: I got released by the Cardinals in 1992 and I wanted the opportunity to play football again. It didn't matter where and it happened to be the Arena Football League.

Question: How many more years do you intend to play in the AFL?

Eddie Brown: I am shooting for 4 years if the Lord is willing and I stay healthy. Once I feel I am not being as successful as I can I will walk away. I would like to walk away on top.

Question: In your opinion what is/was the most difficult change or difference in the AFL game as opposed to playing outdoors?

Eddie Brown: Just the speed of the game. And being able to adjust your routes on a smaller field. Everything happens so quick! Then being able to deal with the walls. We had a drill when I first joined where they teach you how to hit the walls. I just about killed myself and I am still trying to perfect my ability.

Question: What has been the highlight of the season for you so far?

Eddie Brown: The success we are having as a team. Being able to contribute to the team and its success.

Question: Who is the biggest jokester on the team? Who keeps you all fired up?

Eddie Brown: Kyle Moore. He always has a joke and keeping people relaxes. It is a fun atmosphere to be around because you never know what may happen in practice or who the joke may be on.

Question: Who has had the biggest influence on your game? How about on your life off the field?

Eddie Brown: I don't think there was one. I think I have always felt I could be successful in football. My upbringing in Florida with the mentality you need to play there helped me with my heart and determination. Off the field? That would be my mother.

Question: What do you think is your best ability? Speed? Your hands?

Eddie Brown: I think my hands as well as my focus and concentration for the ball. That is more important than speed.

Question: Have you ever considered trying to go to the NFL Europe to showcase your hands?

Eddie Brown: Not at all. I found happiness doing what I am doing. I enjoy it and am very happy. I am content doing what I am doing.

Question: When did you start playing football and do you have any advice to young players who would like to play professionally?

Eddie Brown: I started when I was about 6 years old. I played at the Boys' Club in Miami. I would say don't put all your eggs in one basket. Don't lose focus on your education. You can't play football forever and you need to have something to fall back on after football. Make sure you live a full and productive life.

Question: I read where some guys hold down other jobs even during the season! What about you?

Eddie Brown: I hold down a coaching job after the season is over. It keeps me busy and active and it is something I enjoy. I will be coaching the defensive backs at North Central High School here.

Question: What is a typical practice like in the Arena League?

Eddie Brown: We have meetings in the morning, go on the field around 11 am. We practice for about 2 hours if we are doing the right things. If not we will probably be there all day!

Question: Which coach taught you the most about football?

Eddie Brown: I think my college coach at Louisiana Tech, Coach Peace, taught me the most.

Question: Being involved in coaching, what do you think is the most important thing a coach can impart on his players?

Eddie Brown: The discipline in life and teaching them how to accept responsibility.

Question: Do you follow college football or the NFL? Who are you favorite teams?

Eddie Brown: I follow both! The Miami Hurricanes and the Miami Dolphins are my teams.

Question: Did you style yourself after any NFL receivers? Who did you like when you were growing up?

Eddie Brown: Yes I did. Jerry Rice's work ethic. When I heard about that and how he prepares I took that and added that to my regimen and it helped a whole lot. I liked Lynn Swann.

Question: You added 1,534 receiving yard this year. How many more do you need to catch Barry Wagner for the overall record?

Eddie Brown: I don't know exactly but I have done a good job of catching up. I would estimate he is another 200-300 yards ahead of me.

Question: How do you think the Arena League is doing in helping teams develop a loyal fan base?

Eddie Brown: I think they are doing ok! Their motto is that the Fans are First. The league makes sure we hang around and sign autographs and that build loyalty with the teams.

Question: You've been in the league quite some time now. What is the funniest thing that has happened to you or that you have seen on the field?

Eddie Brown: I don't think I have seen anything too crazy. One of our players was wide open for a catch, all by himself and about 15 yards away from anyone, and he dropped it! It was funny because that was something he never does and when he got back to the huddle we all had a laugh. And then we scored on the next play.

Question: Do you have any children? Would you like your sons to play professional football?

Eddie Brown: Yes to both!

Question: What can we expect against Grand Rapids? What will it take to win?

Eddie Brown: Perfection on offense. And physical on defense and special teams. And you can expect a win!

Question: What do you like to do for fun off the field?

Eddie Brown: I like to see any possible sporting event around! I love baseball or any basketball, WNBA too. Any sports.. I am a sports freak!

Question: Does your family go to watch your games?

Eddie Brown: Not that often. They are from Miami. My mom has been able to come to two games.

Question: Did you set any goals before the season? If so, what were they and did you accomplish them? Yes I did set goals.

Eddie Brown: They were to be as productive as I was early in my career and continue to have success as one of the best offensive specialists in the league.

Eddie Brown: I would like to thank everyone for your support and your questions. And thank you for allowing me to have success by following the Arena Football League. God Bless