š„ Albert Wilsonās First Interview After NFL Retirement

By Ja'Min Devon
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
Posted in:

Ja'Min - Sunland News: Is this the first interview, post-retirement?
Albert Wilson: Official interview, yeah. You know, I've made a couple of comments here and there, but nothing legit yet. So, of course, it's only right that we do this now.
Ja'Min - Sunland News: How do you feel post-retirement? I love the way you announced itājust low-key, staying true to your style. How did it feel writing that announcement?
Albert Wilson: I was excited. You know, I was entering a new chapter, just being a dad, which is something I always knew I wanted to do. But when it happened, it kind of took me by storm. Playing in the NFL for 9 to 10 years, being in that environment, I woke up almost every day thinking, "I'm really here." So, when it came time to make that decision to hang it up, it just felt like the right thing to do, the next thing in life.
Ja'Min - Sunland News: It sounds like it was just the right time.
Albert Wilson: Yeah, it was pretty much time. Going into work every day was great. Being in Vegas, I still loved competing, being around the guys, and everything that football had to offer. It definitely fulfilled me. But going home after everything was over and being with my family, waking up with themāit was something I knew was better.
Ja'Min - Sunland News: Iāve always admired your dedication, whether it was on the field or anything else. Youāve always been 100%, no matter what it was. And Iāve noticed that youāre great at building and finding teams. I feel like your family is your next team, right?
Albert Wilson: Definitely. The way you described it hits the nail on the head. Whatever Iām into, I put my 100% in. Being a guy with high faith, I believe if I put in the work, itās going to work out. Iāve always told myself if I can do those two things to the best of my ability and it doesnāt go my way, then it was never meant for me. Iām okay with that. Once Iām in it, Iām a competitor, so Iām always pushing myself, and thatās where I get the results. Itās all about setting my eye on the prize, putting in the work, and believing it will work out.

Ja'Min - Sunland News: Graduating from Port Saint Lucie High, heading to Georgia State, and then the NFLācoming from a small town and a new college program, how did it work out for you?
Albert Wilson: I think small-town guys or those under the radar develop a "dog" mentality and find their "why" early. Theyāre driven by purpose, not just accolades, which pushes them harder toward their goals.
Ja'Min - Sunland News: Was choosing Georgia State pivotal for you?
Albert Wilson: Definitely. It was about putting my name in stone, building a program, and playing right away. My best friend Justin found the school, and we decided to dominate together. The experience sharpened my skills and prepared me for the NFL. It was all part of Godās plan, and that mentality carried over to my time in Kansas City, where I was willing to do whatever was needed. Thatās what helped me play nine years in the NFL.
Ja'Min - Sunland News: You really embraced your role.
Albert Wilson: Most definitely.
Ja'Min - Sunland News: Wrapping up, what are you most excited about next? I know youāve got some ideas brewing, especially about giving back to the community.
Albert Wilson: Iām focused on finding something that gets me out of bed every day, and Iām really passionate about working with the youth. I want to mentor young athletes, helping them get mentally ready for the next stage. Itās more about the mentality than just physical training, which has become widely available. Itās the intangibles that really matter.
Ja'Min - Sunland News: Right, those little intangibles.
Albert Wilson: Exactly.
Ja'Min - Sunland News: Word, man, I feel like we could talk forever, but we gotta leave a little something on the plate for next time, right?
Albert Wilson: For sure, man. Part two is coming. Once things get in motion, you know weāll be back with a lot of things I have my eye on or just want to get into.
Ja'Min - Sunland News: Word. I appreciate you, man.