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The Texans selected Ryan Griffin, a tight end from the University of Connecticut, in the sixth round of the 2013 NFL Draft. Griffin, a 23-year old originally from Londonderry, New Hampshire, began the season third on the depth chart behind Pro Bowler Owen Daniels and fourth-year veteran Garrett Graham. Because of injuries to the two, Griffin started the final three games of the season. He finished his rookie campaign with 19 catches for 244 yards and a touchdown. As he cleaned out his locker on Monday, he reflected on his first year in the NFL. *
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The last year has been unbelievable.
It's been 365. It was exactly this time last year where training really ramped up for me. Even after our last game at U-Conn, I think I only had maybe two weeks to myself before I started getting into it. Not only have I worked hard during this year but it's been such an emotional roller coaster.
Just to come from New Hampshire and not get invited to the Combine, thinking I'm not good enough to be in this League and the Texans taking a chance on me. The season that's been going on and Owen Daniels going down and Garrett Graham too, finally getting my opportunity. Hopefully I can just build on that for next year.
Somebody asked me about how I was targeted 11 times in the Denver and Indianapolis games, and how I caught all 11 of those passes. I just said 'Yeah, that's my job: catch the ball.'
Anytime I can do that I'm happy about it. It doesn't end there, though. I have to keep improving with
my blocking and everything, just getting better overall. Those are the things you MUST do if you're a rookie and trying to make it in the NFL.
Now, we just go through exit physicals here, met up with the strength coaches, figure out where I need to be at the start of the season next year. Hopefully end it with a meeting with my position coach. After that, I'm definitely looking to relax and watch some sports and enjoy the game itself.
I'm gonna make quite a few trips possibly to the sunshine states and get some tanning on. It's happening right now, it's gonna happen in Houston, wherever I go, and back home.
I also have to do some cleaning. I'm looking forward to keeping my house in order and making sure it's the way I want it.
It's been quite a process for us rookies. Hopefully we can stay in touch and keep our rookie class together. I know Case Keenum is gonna be around so I'll keep in contact with him and we'll be throwing. I'm excited for the offseason and to get back to it.
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