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Connor Andras: 2018 Draft Prospect Interview

Name: Connor Andras
School: Butler University
Position: Defensive End/Defensive Tackle/Long Snapper
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 250

Q: What were some of your goals heading into your final collegiate season?

My main goal for the season was to win a conference championship and have an automatic bid to the FCS playoffs. Another goal of mine was to be selected captain by my teammates and be All-Conference at both Defensive End and Long Snapper. I had small statistical goals for the season, but the biggest goal was seeing my team grow and succeed each week and I think that goal was achieved when we concluded the season.

Q: If you could describe your style of play in 3 words, what would they be?

Physical, savvy, tenacious.

Q: How will you train and prepare this offseason for the draft or other pro opportunities?

I’m currently training at my school with our teams strength and conditioning coaches as well as my internship location that trains elite athletes in all different sports. I’ve been working on my strength a lot and doing different agility drills at the end of each workout to keep that quick twitch. I do different position specific drills as well and vary them so I can have a plethora of exposure while not allowing myself to become complacent during my sessions. Anything that could even slightly give me an edge while on the field, I have thrown into my sessions at one point or another.

Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on or look for?

As a Defensive Lineman, the biggest thing that I look for are the different types of sets that an Offensive Lineman gives on different plays. Being able to identify a set quickly really gives me an edge when I’m rushing the passer. Another big thing that I study is tendencies, not only of the whole offense, but of the guy I’ll be lined up against the majority of the game. For example, I look at his stance before every play and that helps me determine before the ball is even snapped whether it will be a run or a pass based on his alignment to the guy next to him, how his feet are positioned under him, how high or low he is in his stance, or whether his hand is on the ground or not. Obviously there are always tendency breakers, but this is something that definitely helps when I am preparing for an opponent. Other things that I look for are whether the Quarterback has any pre-snap tendencies/rituals so I could get a jump on the snap or what formation they’re in and whether I can determine whether it is a run or a pass based on their tendencies in that particular formation.

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

I believe that what separates me from other people at my position is that I am extremely physical at the point of contact, I have great hands and hips, and I refuse to be denied. One thing that I pride myself on is never giving up on a play even when it seems like it is over. Having heart and wanting to make every single play is something that cannot be coached and something that I possess as a football player. I am a fierce competitor with a blue collar workman’s mentality regardless of the setting that I am in. I will give 100% at practice, in the weight room, meeting rooms, and any setting to become the best football player that I can be. I believe that I am also one of the most coachable players in this class and I will bring a wealth of knowledge about the game and will to work every single day.

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

I think one of my biggest strengths that I will bring to an organization is my leadership ability on and off of the field. Having this characteristic allows me not only to hold myself accountable, but also my teammates on and off of the field. Another trait that I can bring to the table for a team is my competitive nature. I am ultra-competitive and love to compete in absolutely everything that I do, whether it is on or off of the field. I am also confident when it comes to the classroom part of the game. Understanding a defense and how every part comes together is something that I am confident in my ability to do.

Q: What is your final pitch or sell to NFL and other pro league scouts?

I believe that I would be a good fit for any team because I have had to work my tail off for everything that I have accomplished in my life, whether it be on or off of the field. I am someone who does not shy away from hard work, competition, or responsibility knowing that those are the things that have gotten me to where I am today. I have a blue collar mentality with everything that I approach, which is something that was instilled into me from a young age by my family, who I cannot thank enough for. Coming from a small university, I know that I will have to prove myself at any level, but all I need is one shot and I promise you won’t regret giving me an opportunity.

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