Caesar Rayford is an instrumental reason why the Utah Blaze have the nickname "Sack City." The former University of Washington star has terrorized quarterbacks in the Arena Football League during his time in Utah. His success generated strong interest from the NFL, and on Thursday Rayford signed a three-year contract with the Indianapolis Colts. Deseret News sports writer Trevor Phibbs caught up with Rayford to talk about his time with the Blaze and his transition into the NFL.
Q: How does it feel to sign a multiyear contract with an NFL team?
A: It definitely feels good — it’s a great accomplishment. I just feel truly blessed for the opportunity and the journey starts again and more hard work to be done. I’m definitely excited for the opportunity. ... I still got to go in there and prove myself because nothing is given.
Q: How did you feel after the workout in Indy? Did you feel that you had done enough that the Colts would offer you a contract?
A: I thought I did the workout pretty good. It was basically positional drills. They ran a bunch of D-line drills, hit the sled, and I dropped back in coverage — linebacker stuff — just a variation of stuff. It was a pretty good workout, too. I was sweatin’ pretty good, especially ‘cause I was the only one doing it.
Q: What is your future with the Blaze? Are you officially done or will you join the Colts after the season?
A: I’m done with the Blaze right now. I fly back to Indy on Monday to finish out (organized team activities) and everything.
Q: How has the time in Utah been beneficial for your career?
A: It’s been very, very beneficial for my career. It kept me playing football and doing something that I love to do. The Utah Blaze is definitely a first-class organization and they gave me all the resources to succeed. As a defensive player it’s taught me to be a quicker pass rusher. It taught me to keep grinding and keep playing my dream.
Q: How excited are you to play for a franchise like Indianapolis that is so well-spoken of around the league?
A: They’re definitely a top team and a top franchise. I’m happy to be able to work with them. They’re a hard-working franchise and that corresponds with me because I’m hard working. I’m just excited for the opportunity.