JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Meet James Stewart, our Morning Show fitness expert
You've seen him on our 9 a.m. show the past few Thursdays sharing fitness tips, but there's a lot more to James Stewart than just great workout advice. Close friends describe the former Jaguar as one of the nicest guys they've ever met. Plus, if you remember him from his days on the field, then you remember how he shined while wearing teal.
James Stewart first landed in Jacksonville as a first round draft pick for a brand new team. That was 1995.
Stewart talked about his first few weeks here. "Jacksonville was a new franchise at that time and they didn't have any history or anything like that so it was interesting to come in from the beginning, from the very start."
During his five years in a Jaguars uniform, there's one game that stands out. The game that fans still ask about.
"I didn't even start that game," James said. "That's why I always say, you never know when you're time is going to come. So you have to be ready at all times."
It was October 12th, 1997 The jags were playing the Philadelphia Eagles and Stewart scored five touchdowns. He still holds the franchise record. Stewart couldn't help but laugh as he shared his thoughts about that day.
"It was the most I had ever scored in one game and it probably would have been six but Coach Coughlin said, you don't need to go in on this last drive here," said Stewart.
Stewart's NFL career in general was outstanding. He scored 48 career touchdowns and kept suiting up until 1999 when injuries forced him to retire. He ended his career as a Detroit Lion.
"I was fortunate and blessed to be able to play for nine years. By the grace of God I was able to do it for nine years and I enjoyed every minute of it," said Stewart.
Today, touchdowns come in another form; with the clients he trains to meet 'their' personal goals. "It is one of the most gratifying feelings to see someone achieve something they thought they couldn't achieve and you be a part of that."
Not only is personal training a definite part of Stewart's future, so is staying here in the place he's called home for 18 years.
"It's just a great community and a great place to raise your family. Plus, my wife loves the beach and whatever she likes goes. Happy wife, happy life," said Stewart.
To see the unedited version of Stewart's interview, click on the link. You'll be able to see what gives him goose bumps during the interview and why he says leaving football was not as tough as he thought it would be, click the video link in this story.