Russell Okung was named to his second career Pro Bowl earlier this week for his outstanding play on the field.
It was certainly warranted as the left tackle was a rock protecting Philip Rivers’ blindside while paving the way for a career-year for Melvin Gordon.
However,
Authentic Mitch Morse Jersey, it’s his contributions off the field that were equally,
womens Steven Nelson Jersey, if not more? impactful.
After all,
womens Jeremy Maclin Jersey, the veteran helped usher in a much needed culture change along the offensive line.
Head Coach Anthony Lynn insisted a culture change was necessary from the minute he was hired,
womens Patrick Mahomes II Jersey, and there is no denying Okung played a pivotal role in doing just that.
Just ask Philip Rivers.
too. He brings a very calm way of leading. A very calm veteran presence to that offensive line group and to the whole offense. He was a good leader for us as well. He’s been in a place that won a championship. He’s won a lot of football games,“Russell was a great addition,” he said. “He had an awesome year. You knew he was a Pro Bowl caliber, big time left tackle. He certainly lived up to that expectation….His mentality is great. He’s got great leadership, and he brought that here to us. It’s good to know we’re going to have him for a long time.”
The chance to instill a new culture was a factor in Okung’s decision to join the Chargers as he was a highly coveted free agent last offseason.
“This year was definitely a transition year for sure,
Authentic Allen Robinson Jersey,” he said. “I’m really happy because I had the chance to just walk into a place that’s really trying to shift their culture and the mentality of the organization. I’m glad I can be a part of that.”
So,
Authentic Jalen Ramsey Jersey, does Okung agree that he was a big part of that culture change?
“I hope so,
Authentic Chris Jones Jersey,” he said humbly. “I try to be a be a guy who comes in here and is all about professionalism,
Authentic KeiVarae Russell Jersey,
Authentic Chris Conley Jersey, my work and work ethic. Hopefully that’s been reflected in my work every single day.”
Of course, just because the Bolts changed a big part of their culture doesn’t mean the work is done.
If anything,
Authentic Steven Nelson Jersey, it’s only just begun.
One area the entire team wanted to improve entering the 2017 season was their mental and physical toughness and grit. To that end, Okung believes the guys up front showed what type of heart they possess.
“The toughness, we have some places to grow in terms of maturity, it’s getting there. We definitely showed grit and resilience with the way we fought back from 0-4. Now, and toughness that comes with consistence in play. I think that’s something we’ll figure out really quick.”
Okung is no stranger to championship level teams, including a 43-8 victory in Super Bowl XLVIII. The veteran knows Rome wasn’t built in a day, making the Super Bowl twice during his tenure with the Seattle Seahawks, but he firmly believes the Bolts planted the seeds necessary for a high level of sustained success in 2017.
“That’s starting to come together,
womens Allen Robinson Jersey, no matter what was going on,
womens Jalen Ramsey Jersey,” he said. “The guys are really positive. Win or lose,
womens Chris Jones Jersey,
womens KeiVarae Russell Jersey,
womens Mitch Morse Jersey,
Authentic Jeremy Maclin Jersey,
Authentic Patrick Mahomes II Jersey,
womens Chris Conley Jersey, guys were always positive and willing to overcome. That’s a key attribute you want to see in any championship team. Guys who understand how to overcome adversity and any issues that may arise.”
