Name: Erik Hansen
School: Upper Iowa University
Position: DE
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 260
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
I wanted to dominant at my level of competition which I did with 20 TFLs and 9 sacks. After getting All American in 2019 I was still able to follow up my 12.5 sack performance and 19 TFLs, while being game planned against and fighting lots of double and triple teams in pass protection.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
An extra year of eligibility helped me to develop more as a pass rusher and get more solid in the run game. It also helped me to develop my speed and strength and become an overall better athlete.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates would say I am a player who loves the process of getting better, they would also say I do everything in my ability to make sure I am the best version of myself I can be.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When studying film I break down the offensive lineman in various ways that will help my pass rush such as the offensive lineman’s stance and the way they set in pass protection.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What separates me from other prospects is my ability to pass rush at an elite level and still being able to dominant in the run game. I also have a very high motor and good technique, as well as great use of my hands.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
My offseason plan is to play in the CGS and then train with Chuck Smith and Chip Smith in Georgia to prepare for my pro day.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
My strengths and abilities I would bring to a team that would stand out would be my ability to use a variety of pass rush moves while still being able to play the run. This means I can play every down and not just be a 3rd and long D-end. My high motor will stand out especially in my pass rush off the field I will bring leadership and a blue-collar mindset and help to bring teammates along with me.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
My final pitch to an NFL team would be I enjoy the entire process of football and not just playing in games. I love the early morning workouts, the practices, and watching film. There is nothing I don’t love about football. I am a leader who wants to help my teammates become better players and great humans in general. I am a great pass rusher with a high motor that can play the run and is coachable and wants to learn everything possible about the game of football.
