Zane Beadles' lifelong dream came true on Friday night. The former University of Utah All-American offensive tackle was picked in the second round of the NFL draft by the Denver Broncos. Beadles, a Hillcrest High product, discussed a few things with Deseret News sportswriter Andrew Aragon shortly after becoming a Denver Bronco.
Question: What was your reaction when Broncos coach Josh McDaniels called you, saying you were his pick?
Beadles: I kind of started shaking a little bit, I think. I was at a loss for words. I was excited. I'm excited to get to work and play some football. It's been a stressful time, with things not related to playing football — just the whole draft process, (running) 40s, interviews, tests. The draft process was just different from playing football.
Question: What's the first thing you're going to buy when you sign your first pro contract?
Beadles: I've been thinking about this a little bit. I think I'm going to get a King Posturepedic mattress. Sleep is very important. I haven't even seen what they cost, but I think that's what I'm going to get.
Question: Any thoughts on being Tim Tebow's teammate? (Tebow, the former Florida QB, was picked by the Broncos in the first round)
Beadles: I don't know him very well. I met him at the Senior Bowl, and he was on the other team. Hopefully, I'll get a chance to get to know him. We're in the same draft class, on the same team. We're going to be going through some of the same things, being on the same team and in the same draft class. When you go through things together like that, as teammates and as a football team, you become friends through that.
Question: Who have been the biggest influences on your football career?
Beadles: My parents — both of them (Brad Beadles and Jamie Legerski). My high school coach (the late Bruce Takeno) was a huge influence. He always taught me to be a rabid dog on the field, but to always be a gentlemen off the field. He always said to try my hardest to be someone to be proud of off the field. And then obviously, (Utes) coach (Kyle) Whittingham and my position coaches at Utah (Charlie Dickey and Blake Miller).
Question: What type of influence has your family had on your life and football career?
Beadles: It's been huge. I tell you what, the Denver Broncos just got a ton of new fans. I had at least eight people (family members) at every one of my games (as a Ute) — home and away. I can't say enough about the time and money my family has put into supporting me. I just want to pay them back, not necessarily monetarily, but with being a good football player and being a good son.