Name: Andre Walker
School: Houston Baptist
Position: EDGE
Height:  6’1″
Weight: 225

Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?

A major goal in my final season was to be regarded as one of the best pass rushers in all of college football, and to leave a lasting legacy here at Houston Baptist University. Ultimately, I was able to end the regular season with a FCS leading 15 sacks, which was #2 overall behind Chase Young. I also was able to break many school records, which includes the all-time career sack record.

Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?

That I am a very competitive and physical player that is very dependable on and off the field. 

Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?

I am very big on pre-snap keys. I like to focus on what the offensive linemen are doing before certain plays, so that my instinctual reaction to the run vs pass play is faster and more aggressive. I also like to see old film of my past games, so that I can get a better picture of what my opponent is seeing as well. If it seems that I am constantly getting sacks on a long arm bull rush, then I may work on faking a long arm then dipping around the corner to counteract my opponent’s scouting preparation. I also like to focus on the tendencies of the quarterback. Does he like to hold the ball? Does he like stepping up or rolling out the pocket? Little things like that really do make a difference in how I approach a pass rush move, and If I am able to get a general idea of this before hand, then my game greatly improves.

Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?

I would say the way that I dissect upcoming teams during film study. Being a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major, I learned pretty quick that intense mental preparation is a critical factor on test day. Taking this approach to football, everyone is going to be big, fast, and strong, so the little things that are determined during proper film study is what will separate us on game day. I also take this a step further during game day by actively reading the offensive linemen and quarterback’s eyes before every play. Reading those eye twitches by the offensive players in front of me really do tell a whole story and played a critical part in my success this year. 

Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?

Seeing how I may transition to linebacker, I am constantly working on my hip mobility and instincts when reading offensive formations and route combinations. On top of staying highly conditioned, I am also improving on what makes me great, which is my explosiveness and overall physical strength. 

Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?

Firstly, I am a very dependable person who takes a lot of pride in making sure that I complete my assignment accordingly. While I am a very physical player that thrives in adverse situations, I am also very cerebral pre-snap and watch a lot of outside film to help complement that aspect of my game. I also make great use of my long arms to create leverage, which effectively negates any major size difference. 

Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL or any other pro leagues?

I am a very productive playmaker that will never compromise the integrity of the defense by being out of position. I am very dependable off the field, and have a proven track record of never causing any off the field issues. I am very competitive, so I am always looking for ways to improve my game and defeat the man in front of me. I also love working towards goals much bigger than myself, and will always do what is necessary to ensure the overall success of the team.