77 + 62 + 55 + 6th round pick = Chris Myers

The Texans are getting new fans and a new center. I spoke with Chris Myers, Sr., also know as 55Olinesdad. He is the father of Chris Myers, who was acquired last month for this year's 6th round pick. After talking to Chris' dad, I learned that the Texans are getting their best 6th round pick ever. Read the interview and see. (We did the interview on the phone, so this is a summary of my notes from the conversation).

How many games in a season do you attend?

The Myers family lives in Miami, Flordia. They attended 3-4 games in 2005 and 2006. They made it to just 2 games in 2007. They have DirecTV, so they watch Chris play every game. His father really enjoys attending parts of training camp. He's working on arrangements to attend training camp here in Houston this year.

Other than your son, who is your favorite Bronco?

Without missing a beat, he said, "Tom Nalen." Nalen has been mentoring Myers for the last three years. Myers was a little starstruck playing with Nalen, but has grown into the same mold as the All-Pro center.

And other than your son, who is your favorite Texan?

He told me that Eric Winston was his favorite Texan. He said that he's known Eric personally since he and Chris played in Miami. Eric comes to his home for dinner and has come to his office on several occasions. They too affectionately refer to him as "Neanderthal."

Have you bought a battle red Chris Myers jersey yet?

He's waiting to be sure that Chris is No. 55. Once training camp is complete, he can be sure what Chris' number will be. Then he'll buy a Chris Myers Texans jersey.

Does anyone else in your family have football ties?

The Myers family has a long pedigree of football players. Tom Kelleher, Chris' maternal grandfather was an NFL referee. He holds the distinction of officiating in 5 Super Bowls. Now the NFL restricts referees to 4 Super Bowls in their career, so his grandfather's record could stand forever. The Myers family is campaigning for him to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. They even have a picture of Tom Kelleher arguing with Vince Lombardi on the sideline. Chris and his siblings keep this picture in their locker as inspiration. Click here to continue reading...