Matthew Bergeron has a slightly crazy dream: an NFL in which Quebec players do not form a small minority, but a large contingent through the 32 teams on the circuit, as is the case in the National Hockey League.
For Bergeron, it would be special to be part of the Atlanta Falcons roster when they face the Washington Commanders on October 15. On the other side of the field, he could see his compatriot Benjamin St-Juste.
“It shows us how healthy football in Quebec is and will continue to grow,” mentioned the big guy, 6 feet 5 inches and 322 pounds in an interview with the Quebec Morning on TVA, Thursday. “This year, we broke the record for the most Canadians drafted. I think that next year, we will beat him again because a lot of Quebecers will go to the repechage.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing more Quebecers in the NFL so that it becomes the norm in the same way as Quebecers in the NHL.”
Even though Bergeron was drafted 38e in total by the Falcons, his position in the NFL is far from certain for the next season. The Quebecer, however, passed the first test.
“Everything went well at the rookie minicamp,” he said. I went from left blocker to left guard. I’m adjusting to a new position and I’ve made a good impression.”
It’s in August, when the real training camps get underway in the NFL, that everything will be decided.
“It’s usually during preseason games that rookies stand out and carve out a place for themselves. I’m not stressing myself out, but I would really like to have a start on September 10 in the first game of the regular season.
Watch the full interview with Matthew Bergeron in the video above.