When students are asked for a sports idol or a favorite player on the San Francisco 49ers, many mention modern stars such as linebacker Patrick Willis or tight end Vernon Davis. Others name Super Bowl-winning legends such as Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana, wide receiver Jerry Rice, or safety Ronnie Lott. However, junior Mitchell Faylor has a unique answer: his own dad.

John Faylor was a backup defensive end for the 49ers in the 1980s, and his legacy continues in his son Mitchell who excels as a defensive end on the Falcon football team, recording 17 tackles during the 2010 season.

Despite his father’s NFL experience, Faylor was never forced to play football, unlike many other children of professional athletes. “I actually didn’t play Pop Warner football or anything,” Faylor said. “I just decided to start playing football my freshman year, and my dad was really happy.”

As expected, the 6-foot, 205 pound Faylor has many advantages on the field aside from his size. Due to his father’s wisdom and encouragement, Faylor receives advice that others might not.

“He helps me out a lot,” Faylor said. “He’s able to get me what I need and get me to work out. He also gives me advice to help me get better. A lot of the time, he knows more things than our coaches do in certain areas. He can give me advice that coaches usually wouldn’t give, and it usually works.”

Faylor said he has also enjoyed meeting former professional players who his father befriended.

“I met [former 49ers QB] Joe Montana two years ago, which was awesome,” Faylor said. “I’ve also met [former 49ers TE] Brent Jones, and a lot of other professional players.”

Being the son of a former professional is not always easy for Faylor and his football career, but he said that the positives easily outweigh the negatives.

“Sometimes there can be a little more pressure to perform well because of my dad, but he just wants me to do my best,” Faylor said. “My dad helps me get better, and with his advice, hopefully I can progress to the next level.