Name: Matthew Campbell
School: The Citadel
Position: P
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 230
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
One of my goals was to break a few records set by Paul Maguire and Greg Davis, who were both 2 NFL punters produced from The Citadel. I set the record for highest career average over 4 seasons at 44 yards per punt, as well as the longest punt with an 84 yarder.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
I did not take my extra year of eligibility, but I was fortunate enough to play during the Covid year 2020. We played 4 games in the fall and 8 games in the spring.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I think they would say I am a selfless, hard working player. At least, that’s what I try to be. They always see me getting extra work in not only on the field, but also in the weight room.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
I always look at the drop and my steps. The punts I don’t hit well are either because the drop is off or my steps are too long. I also make sure my op times are quick enough.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I know how to handle adversity well. Being at a military college, you face ups and downs and handle adversity every single day. On top of that, I had to handle a great few of adversity after our game against University of South Florida. I went viral for a shanked punt, but then finished the game and short Fall season well by averaging 41 yards against Clemson on 10 punts and 46 yards on 4 punts at Army West Point. I don’t let the little things get to me. Lastly, punting at The Citadel has its disadvantages. I am punting at sea level and have dealt with 15-25 MPH winds in games before. Punting at sea level is extremely different from punting up in the mountains or higher elevations. I learned how to handle both disadvantages.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I went to Arizona to do a one on one training session with Gary Zauner, and I plan on doing more of those here after his college senior combine. In the meantime, I will keep kicking and doing the drills I was taught.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I know I will have the ability to change field position, whether it’s hitting a long punt or pinning a team deep inside their 10 yard line.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
All I need is one shot. One shot to prove myself worthy of being at the professional level. I know I can make a difference in field position for any team.
View Film: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MSQvE4f2uIELty8goK1kl6GSpEpAtBp0/view?usp=drivesdk
