Name: Nickai Poyser
School: Marian
Position: LB
Height: 6’1″
Weight: 237

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

This season my goals were only to win a national championship, get better every day and work on my technique. I knew going into the season we had a shot to win the whole thing and me being a captain, I wanted to take responsibility on making sure at the end of the year we will be there.

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

If you asked anybody who has ever played with me or coached with, I know the first thing they will probably talk about is my work ethic. I take the game football very seriously, it’s a priority for me, I care too much about the game to cheat it. They will also say that instinctual linebacker that has a nose for the ball.

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

When I’m watching film I try to improve on knowing the opponents tendencies so I can play that much faster and also getting everyone on the right page. In the defense I played in and my position I’m kind of like the QB of the defense, so improving on those things helps me play faster while getting my guys in the right calls and checks.

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

What separates myself from other people is probably my work ethic and my instincts. I think people that just watches the game don’t really understand how hard it is, especially defense. You are reacting off somebody else. So having that work ethic and instincts knowing offense tendencies seeing the slits of the lineman and wides outs, being able to see all those things presnap and making plays in the process separates me for sure.

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

My offseason plan is to train back home in Chicago. Being a college graduate I can use these next 12 weeks to solely focus on football which I’m very excited about. Then have a pro day in late March.

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

The strength and abilities I’m able to bring on the field is my athleticism, being able to guard Tight Ends and Running Backs out the backfield. Being this is only my 3rd year playing inside linebacker, I’ve played positions like CB, SS, and nickel in high school and even college. I’ve also played basketball in high school and was 3 years varsity starter at the point guard position. Another strength of mine is my work ethic/IQ. Breaking down offenses, taking away things that they are good at and what they want to do. Also knowing keys and clues presnap allowing me to play faster and have an idea on what the offense is trying to do. My coaches always told me I have an infectious personality and a natural born leader.

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

My final pitch is what you are going to get out of me is physical, athletic, instinctual linebacker who loves the game of football. I’m a guy who takes pride in what I put on tape and willing to do anything that will help the team become successful.