INDIANAPOLIS (WTHR) - On Monday, past and present came together on the football field.
Former Colts long snapper Matt Overton is now with the Jacksonville Jaguars, but before leaving for training camp in Florida, he teamed up with current Colts long snapper Luke Rhodes to get in some reps.
Paying attention to every detail was someone who hopes to be in their shoes in the future.
“'I've always believed if you can use your platform in a positive way and help those coming along, you jump to it," Overton said. "I had mentors growing up.“
Ethan Trent is entering 9th grade at Carmel High School. He plans to play for the Greyhounds, so he reached out to Overton for some coaching this summer.
"I saw he was in Indy, so I texted him and was like 'hey, wanna workout and teach me how to long snap?' so we met a few weeks back and he taught me how and he’s been teaching me ever since," Trent said.
Ethan is the younger brother of Tyler Trent, the Purdue superfan who inspired us all, including Overton, through his courageous battle with cancer. Tyler and Overton shared a close bond. They spent time together and talked sports, so when Ethan called, Overton answered.
“I wear his wristband to this day," said Overton. "Older brother, I know he was so proud, so it’s awesome to be one here helping him.”
"He’s absolutely awesome, someone to talk to, so I trust him so much. He’s really a blessing," Ethan said.
Overton says he’s helped train kids in the past, but Ethan has been a special one to work with.
"His eagerness to want to come out in the summer and do the hard stuff is what makes it special. He’s got the right attitude," Overton said.
"He could work in a school," said Ethan. "He’s a great teacher.”
As Overton gears up for his 9th NFL season, he’s also helping to prepare the next generation to take the field.
"He has a lot of enthusiasm moving forward, going into his freshman year at Carmel, so I’m excited for him.”