Get to know Steelers safety John Battle
John Battle
Safety
Louisiana State University
Most entertaining person you follow on social media? Chad Johnson. He is a Miami native for one. He is just a funny guy. He is the ultimate competitor. The things he does are very comical.
Must have food? I am going to go with shrimp pasta.
Must see show? Family Guy or The Office.
Morning person or night owl? Morning person.
Who is your football mentor or inspiration? Growing up I was a huge Sean Taylor fan. I grew up in the same neighborhood. I watched him from the time I was a little kid until the tragedy happened. He is pretty much the reason why I started playing football.
As a kid who was a fan of his, how tough was that when he was killed? I was in middle school, around 12 or 13. It was pretty tough. The school I was attending was around the corner from where he lived. We were on shutdown because of what happened. It was a crazy day.
What motivates you? My family, my mom, my dad and grandparents. They have always been there for me and wanted a better life for me. It's my motivation to want the same for them so they can lead the life I feel like they deserve.
What is your football mindset/approach? Make it happen at all costs. No matter what the situation is, you have to make it happen. You have to find a way to get it done.
When did you start to dream about playing in the NFL? Probably when I was six years old and first started playing football. Playing in the back yard and on a Pop Warner team.
Why do you play football? It's something I grew up loving. It was my escape. My way of expressing myself and developing into a man. It's something I love and enjoy.
What is your proudest football moment or memory? In little league I played quarterback and defensive end. I also played kicker. We had a close game and I kicked the game-winning field goal. That was a big moment. Nobody was thinking that could happen. I was like let me kick it. My coach was like, whatever. Let's see how it goes.
Do you still have the leg? No, not anymore.
When you hear Steelers football, what do you think? Tradition. Black and gold. Championship. I think of hard, gritty football.
What has this offseason been like getting to know your teammates virtually? It's been a process, something we all had to get adjusted to. Just dealing with the guys on a day-to-day basis, talking virtually. We are building our relationship that way. It's been a process, but I enjoyed it so far.
What have learned about self during quarantine? That I really don't like to be alone that much. I grew up an only child, so I am used to be isolated, but for the first time being told not to be around people it's a different experience.
Did you pick up new hobbies or skills? I started cooking more. That became my thing. Instead of going out and getting fast food or take out, I have been cooking and experimenting. It's been turning out pretty well.
Any dishes you have mastered? My go to dishes I am pretty proud of are a honey, garlic citrus salmon. I will have mashed potatoes or broccoli or green beans. And I have a seafood rice with crab and lobster tail on the side. Those are my two go to dishes.
