Two years ago, Dallas Cowboys cornerback Morris Claiborne was down to 150 pounds. It was his lowest weight since high school, and the lowest point of his career.
"All my clothes got too big. My neck got was all skinny. I looked like this microphone," Claiborne jokingly said, pointing to a small microphone.
Number 24 was coming off two knee surgeries, missed most of the 2014 season and the Cowboys declined the fifth year option of his rookie contract.
A determined Claiborne played better in 2015, as his weight (180 pounds) and confidence grew. It was a marginally productive year, but the most important thing is that he ended the season healthy.
It's allowing him to be a full participant in the off-season program, which rarely happened in year's past. Claiborne's talent and health have never been working at the same time to warrant the Cowboys taking the corner back with the sixth overall pick in 2012. However, the LSU product believes this year can be different.
"When you all come talk to me, I want you to say, 'Oh, that was a nice pick,' or, 'You made this play. How does it feel going to the Pro Bowl? How does it feel going to a Super Bowl?'" said Claiborne.
"Those are the questions I want. I'm ready to take on that task. I know the coaches expect a lot from me. I expect a lot from myself, nothing less. I have some high goals this year and I'm trying to reach them," said Claiborne.
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Cowboys defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli is taking notice.
"The more he practices, the better he gets. I think it's his time. I think all the work he's been doing right now, we'll see. But I think he's had a real solid camp," said Marinelli.
Claiborne is now up to 194 pounds, the heaviest weight of his career. His confidence is also at its peak. The cornerback is certainly motivated as he only signed a one-year deal.
