WALK THE WALK
Talking with Demarcus Walker
When Shelby Harris blocked the would-be tying field-goal attempt by Chargers kicker Younghoe Koo at the end of regulation in the Broncos’ season-opening victory Sept. 11, the play was a trip down memory lane for Denver outside linebacker Demarcus Walker.
The Broncos rookie authored one of the most memorable plays in the history of the heated Florida State-miami rivalry. It came last season, when he blocked Miami’s point-after attempt at the end of the game, preserving a 20-19 win in regulation for the Seminoles at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium. The play became known as “The Block at the Rock.”
The Denver Post spoke to Walker last week about the legacy of that play, his relationship with Nuggets guard Malik Beasley, preparing for Denver winters and more.
Q: When Shelby Harris had that blocked field goal against the Chargers, did it bring back memories of your blocked extra point to beat Miami during your senior year at Florida State?
A: Most definitely, it really did. I was so happy for him because it was a great play and I know how that feels. I wish it was me, but it was even better to have my first NFL game as a “W.”
Q: Do you still hear from people about that play?
A: All the time, all the time. That’s going to live forever.
Q: Where did that play stack up in your college career?
A: That’s probably in the top three moments.
Q: Was one of those moments getting tweeted at by Kobe Bryant last season?
A: (Laughs) Nah. That was great, but winning the national championship (as a freshman in 2013), that block or having 4K sacks (in a game against Ole Miss last season) — those were probably my top three moments.
Q: Kobe tweeted you because you mentioned his “Mamba Mentality” after having those 4K sacks. Is he a guy you’ve always looked up to?
A: Most definitely. You know that when tough moments get there, he takes over. That’s the type of player I want to be on this level. So I’m just staying patient, but hungry also, and trying to get better every single day and just waiting for my moment.
Q: Speaking of basketball, I understand you and Nuggets guard Malik Beasley are good friends. You both went to Florida State, and now are professionals early in your careers here in the same city. What’s that like?
A: To be honest with you, it’s a dream come true. The last thing he said to me when we got to talking was “Man, we’re here now.” Basically, that’s it. We’re here and we’re fulfilling our dreams. We’re going to take the city over.
Q: Are you excited to go see some of his games?
A: Oh, yeah. I actually met with (president of basketball oper- ations Tim Connelly) of the Nuggets, and I’ll be down there.
Q: Do you play basketball in high school?
A: I did. I was a power forward.
Q: Switching gears, I think people got a kick out of seeing — when you got drafted to
Denver and came out here after the draft — that it was your first time experiencing snow. Have you prepared your winter wardrobe yet? A: I’m getting to that, to be honest with you. I’ve started. That’s a great question. I started on my wardrobe. I’ve bought over five pairs of pants, three trench coats, a bunch of hoodies. I’ve got a lot more to go.”
Q: It will come fast, the weather. That’s what they’ve told you, right?
A: Oh, yeah. It was even cold (Wednesday and Thursday) morning. I actually like a little breeze in the morning. I’m getting used to it. I’ve just got to get ready for that cold.