Name: Maceo Matthews Jr
School: Heidelberg University
Position: WR
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 190
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
First was to break the school records in career yards and touchdowns (which I did). Another was to get through a full season as healthy as possible playing every game (which I did). Make the playoffs(came up short 8-2 they didn’t like us). Continuing to be an all confernce reciever (which I did). Get a 3.0 GPA (which I did). Become a better man everyday that I wake up (which I did). Become all american and receiver of the year(came up short).
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
By improving my knowledge, understanding the game better and knowing what I need to do against my opponents. Competing at a DIII isn’t the best but competiton wise was definitely an advantage I took this year. My team had a lot of ups and downs during my final year. Overcoming obstacles and improving my leadership skills.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I’m a person who’s looking to improve in every aspect of my game. I’m disciplined and I also can take positive criticism . I’m a true leader. My teammates love me and I love being around them.. I get better year by year. My athleticism is off the chart. I’m a big play guy whenever the team needs a spark you can 1000% count on me. I’m looking to work no matter what if I’m starting or fighting for a starting position. I’m hungry to be great.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
How can I beat my defender either coming off the ball or getting separation at the top of my route. I also study the coverages. When stepping on the field you have to know what coverages the defense is in. Either man or zone this will give you a better understanding on what moves you want to use to get open. Lastly you have to watch film on yourself. You want to see what new moves you can put into your bag. You don’t want to use the same moves you have to switch the flow up.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
My hand eye coordination is a great tool. I often drop balls I look every ball in. My hands are godly huges so catching the ball isn’t the problem for me. Most people see my hands and be like oh my god I see why you catch the ball tremendously good. Coming from a DIII everything comes hard. You really have to work and prove you can compete with the big guys. I have been fighting to get recognized for many years. That finally happened because of the grind I had put in not ever giving up. My athleticism is crazy, this something I know will set me apart. Knowing/having a great feeling for the game of football. I believe my football IQ totally sets me apart knowing how to time my jumps and locate a bad football. Finally my willingness to never give up on my dream. Coming out of high school I had one offer and that was to attend Heidelberg. People have always said that if you’re at a lower level school you won’t succeed there. I didn’t listen or feed into what they had to say. I set out to prove them wrong and not give up on myself and my dream.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I plan to train everyday with my trainer. Uping my work that will get me prepared to play with professional players at either the NFL or CFL level. Doing everything that I can do to not give up a chance of going to the next level.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Work ethic leaving the gym/field late to get extra work in. Leadership is the main one. Either guiding older or younger players. You can never go wrong with having a voice speaking up when you see bad things happening. Not only the bad, it can be the goods. Helping the community out volunteering doing the little things. I can be a spark plug on the field whenever the teams need a play or energy. I can be that guy. Basically the superstar X factor. I believe no one can stop me, the only person that can stop myself is myself. When I get into a zoom it’s hard to stop me. My ability to play football and understand the game will carry over with me to the next level. My hands are godly huges so catching the ball isn’t the problem for me. Most people see my hands and be like oh my god I see why you catch the ball tremendously. But to be honest with my hand/eye both are a great combination.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I’m committed to the game no matter where I land. My work ethic will be the best. I will constantly work countless hours each and every day. I just need one opportunity like Heidelberg gave me. I don’t take this for granted, tomorrow is not promised. While being the best I can be on the field I will carry the same attitude off the field. Being the best role model there is. Showing younger kids to always chase their dreams and to never give up. Never look for the big picture, always take advantage of the opportunity that’s in front of you.
