Austin Chapman: 2022 Pro Prospect Interview
Name: Austin Chapman
School: Mars Hill
Position: LB
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 215
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
I wanted to help my team win in anyway possible whether it was on offense, defense or special teams. Unfortunately a recurring turf toe injury didn’t allow for me to do that.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
I feel that I took advantage of the extra year to become more of a student of the game along with working on weaknesses.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates would say I’m a humble player. I let my play do the talking and my play on the field speaks volumes.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
I focus on the depth and width of the running and how the offensive of line gets in there stance little things like that can give you a better advantage to know their tendencies.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I’m a versatile player, I can play all three linebacker positions and can play in any defensive scheme. I also enjoy special teams as I have gotten older I understand how fun and important special teams are. Small school guys can make a name for theirselves based off of special teams.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I plan on working on the technical aspects of my game such as flexibility, getting faster and coverage mechanics. In todays game you have be able to cover, be flexible and able to stop the run if you’re playing linebacker.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I can play in any defensive system and can adapt my game well to help the whole entire defense even if that means my stats won’t be eye popping, I rather less stats if I’m on the number 1 defense. Off the field a team will not have to worry about any off the field issues if I’m not working or working on my game Im being a full time dad to my two year old son.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
If you’re looking for a player who can play almost anywhere on the defense and be productive, a good teammate and will never have off the field issue that can hurt the team then I’m the guy to take a chance on. I 110% believe I’m a diamond in the rough in this years draft.
