Israel Idonije: Q&A With Chicago Bears Defensive End
Published by Jake Perper on July 6, 2010
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears
Defensive end Israel Idonije came into the NFL as an undrafted rookie in 2003 with the Cleveland Browns. The Browns put Idonije on the practice squad, but Idonije was released midway through the season.
The Bears scooped Idonije up late that season.
The 6’6″ Idonije was used at defensive end, defensive tackle, and on special teams. In Idonije’s first three seasons he appeared in 39 games, making 53 tackles and two sacks.
In 2007, Idonije made 28 tackles in 16 games and also did something very special: That season, Idonije blocked a field goal attempt or extra point attempt in three straight games.
Idonije was known from that point on for his ability to block kicks.
In 2008, Idonije made 24 tackles, 3.5 sacks and deflected six passes. Last season, Idonije appeared in 15 games making 18 tackles and two sacks.
The 29-year-old Idonije has started seven games in his six-year career with the Bears.
I got the chance to speak to Israel Idonije this week and I asked him some questions about how he got so good at blocking kicks, what he has to do to earn a starting spot on the roster and when his foundation started.
Here’s the interview, exclusively on Bearsbacker.com :
Jake Perper is the creator of www.BearsBacker.com and also covers the Bears for www.NFLTouchdown.com.
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