"Trevard said he was nervous," said UK teammate Zipp Duncan, a senior offensive lineman, on Wednesday. "I don't know how many words he'll say. We told him anything over three or four words would be a good answer."
Lindley went from being "shocked and surprised" he was coming to understanding this could help him long-term. He also opted to leave UK for the NFL after the 2008 season and goes into this season ranked as the nation's No. 1 cornerback by many. If he has a banner season, he could easily be a high NFL draft pick next year and maybe even a national award winner.
"Hopefully doing this will get me ready to give a speech if I do win an award," Lindley joked.
Lindley is not prone to trash talking on the field or making jokes in interviews. Brooks appreciates Lindley's business-like demeanor, too.
"He's a very bright young man, a very talented young man and he just goes about his business without a lot of bravado and chest-beating. He's been one of the more pleasurable guys to coach because you ask him to do something and he just goes out and does it. He doesn't say much about it, he doesn't complain, doesn't get all geeked up and all that. He just goes and plays," Brooks said.
'I just don't talk that much'
But he is shy and soft-spoken. He could make a hit and cover receivers on the field as soon as he got to Kentucky, but media interviews did not come as easily for him. He normally gave short, polite answers and left as quickly as possible.
"I am not really that shy. I just don't talk that much. But I guess coming here I was a little shy because I didn't know anybody. Now I just fit right in," Lindley grinned and said.
Brooks said it was an easy decision to bring Lindley. He could have brought linebacker Micah Johnson, the defense's most outgoing player, or tackle Corey Peters, another senior leader. However, the coach wanted to reward Lindley - and also help him.
"He's probably the best returning cornerback in the nation," Brooks said. "He made a tough decision to return (to UK). I owe it to Trevard to let him experience what he will experience at the next level.
"We are not going to make him a media darling. But he's intelligent and can communicate. He's no Dicky Lyons, but I hope this does help him in future endeavors as his career keeps going."
Lindley seemed to handle himself well both in the smaller radio and TV interviews as well as in the larger setting with print media members. He also found time to sign autographs for fans who quickly recognized him.
"It really doesn't bother me to do that now. Kids see me and want autographs. That makes you feel good, and I kind of like it. At first, it was a little weird to be a in a mall and have someone want my autograph. But now it doesn't bother me as much as it did. I am glad to do it now," Lindley said.
"I was a little surprised here that anyone would want my autograph, but maybe that says more about Kentucky football and what we are doing. Whatever it is, I've enjoyed it and I'm glad I came."
