Amari Houston: 2022 Pro Prospect Interview
Name: Amari Houston
School: Lenoir-Rhyne
Position: DL
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 265
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
I had many preseason goals set such as be a great leader, win the conference, make the playoffs, make all conference/all American, and win a national championship along with other goals. Although I didn’t accomplish all of those goals I accomplished being conference defensive player of the year, named 1st team all region, named a semi finalist for the Cliff Harris award (small school defensive player of the year) and finished top 5 in sacks in school history with 23 and top 3 in tackles for loss in school history with 42.5.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
I took advantage of my extra year to sharpen my mental skills of the game. I watched film more to help sharpen my mind of seeing the little details of how the opposing team is lined up in certain formations and also to watch more film on myself to better myself on what I was lacking the week before.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
They would say that I’m a great leader and a team first guy that would do anything that is needed of myself in order for the team to succeed also while being a passionate player who loves the game of football.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
The things I focus on the most during film to improve my game is finding tendencies of opposing teams offensive lineman such as if they are in a three point stances or not, see if they’re leaning before the snap, and watching how they shoot their hands on blocks such as if they are high or low hands. I also like to breakdown the plays on film between run and pass plays to give me a better understanding of what to expect on those plays along with looking at the QB tendencies of does he step up or roll out a lot when pressured. Being able to study those tendencies thoroughly gives me an idea of what I need to focus on during the week of practice to get fully prepared for the upcoming game.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What separates me from other prospects at my position is my natural leverage and pass rush skills. Being on the shorter side gives me an advantage with being able to get under my blockers and I can naturally stay low while rushing the passer. My quickness with my hands is also an advantage for me while rushing the passer. From a mental viewpoint my work ethic, determination, and competitive nature separates me from other prospects at my position. Another big thing that separates me is that I’m a very versatile defensive lineman who can play nose guard, three tech, and defensive end and rush the passer from each of those spots effectively. I can line up at full back if needed as well.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
At school we have a brand new state of the art weight room which is one of the best in D2 and I will be training there to improve my strength and speed.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
On the field I will bring that leadership mentality along with great work ethic and a competitive nature. I will also bring the ability to be coachable and adaptable. If the team needs me to line up at different position then I will with no hesitation if it is going to help the team succeed. Off the field I will also be a leader who sets a great example for the the upcoming generations. I want to be able to be a positive role model for someone.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
Playing professional football has always been a dream and goal of mine since I was a kid. If given the opportunity, whatever team that takes a chance on me will be getting a versatile player who can play all positions on the defensive line while being able to rush the passer effectively along with someone who also a great leader and positive role model for the community. I’m willing to give my all for whatever team to be able to help the team succeed and achieve all goals at hand.
