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Keon Howard: 2022 Pro Prospect Interview

Name: Keon Howard
School:  The University of Tennessee at Martin
Position: QB
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 215

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

The goals I set out for this season were to win the conference championship and win the FCS national championship. I did get one of the two goals accomplished as we made school history at UTM we won the OVC championship. The championship hasn’t been done since 2006. We were also the first team, in program history, to win a playoff game and be ranked in the top 10. We were ranked #8. Unfortunately, we lost in the second round to Montana State. Which, is a good team and program that is currently playing in the Finals.

Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?

I think I took great advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase my chances of going pro. We played in the spring season when the Covid outbreak hit and I’d recently transferred to UTM, sad to say but, due to Covid, it helped me because I needed that extra year to display my talent. I ended the season being OVC Player of The Year and 1st Team All- Conference player. But I hate what Covid did to the world in general a lot of lives were lost.

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

I believe my coaches and teammates would say I’m a blue collar guy that’s hard working and positive through any situation. I strive to be a servant leader to my teammates. A good teammate that will push the guys around him to reach their highest potential. Someone who wants to see the individuals around him reach their goals.

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

The things I focus on when i’m watching film is to see exactly what I did wrong during the previous game or what I could’ve done better. Also I take the time to learn from whatever plays I may have made errors and and make a mental note, so, it won’t happen the next game. For example, I could’ve missed sliding the protection away from the field to the boundary because pre-snap. I see the defense starting to roll weak and bring any kind of blitz from the boundary. So, it’s things like that I try to fix and critique myself on. This will allow me to get better for the next game. Not only help to myself, but ultimately help my offensive linemen out and put the offense in a better position to drive down the field to score.

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

I believe what sets me apart is I am a WINNER! No matter what happens I always find a way to get the job done because I’m determined. I am a very mobile QB that knows how to extend plays with my feet while having my eyes down field. My offensive line only gave up five sacks this past season. They did a great job blocking and whenever they would over set or get beat I could move around in the pocket to help them and find ways to get the ball out with opponents in my face. I can make any throw on the field. I honestly feel like I have the best arm strength in this year’s draft. I also have holiday ball placement. I can also anticipate where my WR’s will be located before they come out of there break and lead the away from defenders. I’m very athletic I can jump higher than most and I have the speed to match it. I have a very high football IQ and good instincts on the field. The main thing I would say that sets me apart from others is I have heart and alpha mentality. I will prove my opponent wrong every opportunity I get. I’m one of a kind! You may compare me to other players, but we are not the same. I’m different I’m authentically me.

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

I’ll be training this off-season in Atlanta, GA getting ready for pro day with Quincy Avery (QB Coach). He is a guy that has dealt with a number of the pro quarterbacks that are currently on an active 53man rosters in the NFL.

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 a leader mentality but also being coachable at the same time. I try my best to lead by example to show the other guys how that this is standard and culture of the team on the field, in the locker room and away from the facility. Off the field, I’ll make sure I represent my organization the right way by making the right choices and trying to help others that are less fortunate and give back to the community.

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

I’m a leader who’s not afraid to admit when I don’t know something. But if you give me 24hrs, I can be able to give you the answer to your question. Which ever NFL team takes a chance on a small town guy, that has the ability to make some big time plays you won’t regret your decision. I had the ability to play on both FBS and FCS levels. I can perform, it doesn’t matter the level. Playing in the NFL has always been a dream of mine, and if given the chance, there won’t be a single regret. I want to be great and I know I can be I just need the opportunity to showcase it. Give me the stage too perform and I’ll get you a standing ovation!

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