Cameron Lynch feature
Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Cameron Lynch is more than just a football player and he wants you to know it. He loves anime shows such as Dragon Ball Z and Naruto and enjoys drinking Kombucha tea. His hobbies and interests outside of football are just as important as his athletic abilities and knowledge of the game.
Last week, USC hosted one of the NFL’s annual Player Engagement Programs. It was a three-day workshop that including young players and veterans alike. Lynch was front and center for the workshops. He wanted to soak in all the information he could about public speaking, leadership and personal branding.
Lynch has played for two franchises in his three years since going undrafted out of Syracuse. He suited up for the Rams in both St. Louis and more recently Los Angeles and last month signed with Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Lynch, who hails from nearby Artesia, is thinking about his post-football career. He’s aware that a lot of athletes today are trying to create their own brand and maximize their fame, producing several avenues to bring in income. He believes his calling is broadcast journalism.
He interned at The Players Tribune last year. There, he learned a lot from employees who have been working in the business for years. He had the opportunity to interview Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson. He envisions himself creating something similar to that, but on a broadcast platform.
“I want to be able to entertain people. I want to have my own show where athletes come in and we just chop it up,” Lynch explained.
Throughout the few days he was at USC, he shadowed journalism legend Miki Turner, who he referred to as “Yoda.” Miki has done everything in the sports journalism world and has interviewed some of the biggest stars in the world.
“One of the first things she told me was to always have a sizzle tape, always have something that is hot and ready to make sizzle,” he said.
Recently, there have been many heated discussions about the intersectionality between sports and politics. President Trump even commented on it when Colin Kaepernick chose to kneel during the national anthem. Lynch will not just shut up and play. He will use his non-football talents to live out his dream and make a difference.
“I’m 24, getting it. I play professional football, I should be training right now,” he said. “But I’m out here taking time and diversifying myself. I won’t let just football define Cam Lynch.”
