I’ve met a few players over the years. Usually just a handshake and a hello. I’ve never talked football with them, except for one.
I was in the Atlanta airport late one night, traveling home from a work trip. This was back before smart phones and such devices. Early 2000’s. The concourse was pretty empty, and I was sitting in a gate area reading a magazine or newspaper. I was wearing a Bills sweatshirt.
out of nowhere, this older gentleman comes up to me and asks if I am a fan. I told him I was, and I introduced myself. He introduced himself as Billy Shaw. I noticed a ring on his finger and asked if it was one of his AFL championship rings. His face lit up as he held it out, and he said no, this was his most treasured ring. It was his HOF ring. He took a seat and we talked for ten or fifteen minutes. Super nice guy. He initiated the encounter and seemed to enjoy talking about his playing time and the Bills in general. His flight was called and we said our goodbyes.
Great memory.