Stevan Ridley Discusses 'Fat Camp' Experience Under Bill Belichick

Former New England Patriots running back Stevan Ridley shared an amusing anecdote about head coach Bill Belichick during his appearance on the 'Games With Names' podcast. Ridley recalled being placed in a 'fat camp' after being drafted in 2011, as he was overweight for an NFL running back at around 238 pounds, while Belichick wanted him down to 220 pounds. During a meeting, Belichick humorously suggested that Ridley could incur a fine of $563 per day for each pound he was over, prompting Ridley to agree to the weight loss regimen. He acknowledged the discipline and effectiveness of Belichick's coaching approach, stating, 'You don’t mess with him. You respect him.' Ridley's experience highlights Belichick's strict standards for player fitness and his unique methods of motivating athletes. Despite the initial shock of the 'fat camp' experience, Ridley ultimately embraced the challenge and credited it for his improved performance.