Redskins welcoming

Rookie Rewind: Carl Berman

By Joe Smith
Published June 28, 2007

Berman, a former Boca Ciega standout, was undrafted and unheralded coming out of Indiana State. But the speedy, 5-foot-9, 166-pound receiver wowed some scouts at Notre Dame's Pro Day and signed a free agent deal with the Redskins; there, he's receiving some quality tips from other "small" receivers in Santana Moss and Antwaan Randle El.

How have you been adjusting in your first camp?

It's been turning out pretty good. I've been picking up the plays really well. There's still a long way to go, but I think I'm in the mix.

What has it been like working with Randle El and Moss?

It's been great. We work out together and off the field, we had a bowling outing one day, which was fun. With Randle El, Santana and James Thrash, they are really good guys helping me out, picking up the offense and giving me tips. It's a real family-type team. I've heard horror stories how players don't help each other out and are just looking for themselves. But it's not like that at all."

What happened at the bowling trip - did you hold your own?

A bunch of us went on a day off. I didn't do too hot (my first one was 127 and another one 101). Those guys are professional bowlers. A rookie tight end from Michigan, he rolled a 204. (Randle El and Moss) did about the same as me.

Any rookie hazing going on so far?

The only thing I had to do is carry the helmets of veteran receivers - and carry their playbooks back and forth. But it's only (organized team activities), we'll see what happens at training camp.

Where do they have you playing - special teams, receiver?

Wherever they need a body, I go there. For receiver, there's no real depth chart, you take reps when you can get them. I've got an outside shot. The more I know, the longer I stay, so I'm looking for that kind of knowledge for as many positions.

The biggest thing is to make a play at the right time. When the ball comes to me, I've got to take advantage.

Joe Smith can be reached at joesmith@sptimes.com or (727) 893-8129.

Carl Berman: Fun Facts

Age: 22

Size: 5-9, 166

Position: Receiver

Acquired: Undrafted free agent

By the numbers: While at Indiana State, Berman's Sycamores had the nation's longest losing streak for a Division I-AA team at 24 games.

Did you know? With a phone call, former Rays managing general partner Vince Naimoli helped Berman land at Notre Dame's Pro Day.

[Last modified June 27, 2007, 22:27:05]