Mandatory Mini Camp

What's up Yardbarkers, Checking in from Cincinnati where we just finished up our mandatory mini camp. Everyone was here and we were all focused on getting better as a team. I know there's been some stuff out there about Chad Johnson but this was all about football and putting things together so that we can take the next step. It was a great experience. We had a team building event the day before camp that was a lot of fun. We went to one of those gokart places and raced against each other. We had different heats depending on size and weight. It was like a NASCAR track and it got super competitive. Some guys cut the track and got disqualified. Corey Mays drove me into the grass and they had to pull me out. I must've been lapped 5 times before they got me back on the track. I was pissed - I wanted to win! It was a great event because it allowed all of us to hang out. It's not like in college where everyone is in the same boat. Here guys have families so you aren't always around each other in social settings. It was really cool. When we got back to camp it was all business. I felt like I improved each day so I was happy about that. There were 5 practices and even though I made plenty of mistakes I felt like I had more good practices than bad. I was able to correct my mistakes and progress within the defense and the calls. Last thing any of us want to do is keep making the same mistakes. I felt like I was able to avoid that and improve. That felt good. It is nice going through it with the other rookies. Being in the same hotel we talk to each other a lot and help each other through the bad days. You definitely don't feel isolated because we're all going through the same things. I'll hit you with more this week - our football activities are finished but I'm still going to be around working out for a little longer. Keith

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• Dewey said June 16, 2008

  I'm psyched for the upcoming season. I'll be pulling for you 14 weeks a year, Keith, but week one Troy Smith (hopefully not Kyle Boller) and the Ravens are gonna bring it! You'd better be ready. Stay healthy and enjoy life in the league.

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• Latinferno said June 16, 2008

  Dude! I think you are one of the most active athletes on this site (along with Rondo from the Celtics) and it is MUCH appreciated. I'm definitely interested in watching the pre-season and how you will fit in the Bengals defensive scheme. I see your competitiveness leaks out even on the gocart track! lol I'm the same way. Next time pull one of these! haha :)
  
  

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• Bonnie777 said June 16, 2008

  I'm really excited for the Bengals defense this year! I appreciate all the updates and I can't wait for the season to start. Go Bengals!

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• whodeyLotD said June 16, 2008

  Can't wait for you to help out the Bengals.
  The jungle is going to be louder than ever this year to help out the D!
  WHODEY!!

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• ILWhoDeyFan said June 16, 2008

  As a Bengal fan for 20+ years, I'll be rooting for you to knock a few Steelers back into next week! Go get em, Keith!!!

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• HeatherC1212 said June 17, 2008

  That go kart racing sounds like fun! I would have been mad to get lapped too, LOL ;) I'm glad you're having fun and that you're enjoying being a Cincy Bengal. I'm looking forward to seeing you play this year! =)

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• Uprock said June 17, 2008

  I still like the Bengals whether or not Ocho Cinco is around. Carson will rise again and have his day for sure and bring the Bengals back to the playoffs and hopefully the Super Bowl!

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• steveyboi099 said June 18, 2008

  my friend is obsessed you and all usc..he goes out there every year trying to meet people he's out there now i guess he met mcknight and stefon johnson so thats pretty cool..good luck this year!!

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• Cincy20 said June 22, 2008

  llklkklk

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• Cincy20 said June 22, 2008

  Keith i live in the Kenwood/Indian Hill region and am in High school, It would mean so much if you'd message me and I would be happy to give you some great places to go in Cincinnati.. and some great places to eat...
  
  Thanks Keith

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