Name: Shawn J. Richard
School: Portland State
Position: DE/OLB
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 245
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
Going into my final season here at PSU one of my goals was to help the team build on what we accomplished the year before. Another goal I set for myself was to finish with 5 or more sacks which I accomplished. Ultimately, I just wanted to get my name out there to show that I’m capable of playing in the National Football League. Once the season was finished, I played in 10 games. I recorded 28 total tackles, 5.5 sacks, 5 tfl’s, 2qbh, 1 forced fumble. I also was awarded Big Sky Honorable Mention.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I believe my coaches and teammates would say that Shawn is someone very attentive, unselfish, attention to details and adhere to his game assignment. He will make sure that he knows everything he needs to know to help the team out. Shawn will put the extra mile when it comes to learning something new and will try his utmost best to master it. Shawn takes accountability for his mistakes and makes sure it does not happen again. Shawn put his effort into practice as if it was an actual game. In addition, Shawn is always the first in practice and the last to leave. Shawn is always seeking to better himself on the field. He displays the same character on and off the field. He is a self starter, very, motivated, dedicated, and very resilient. Shawn is someone who does not give up when the road gets tough but instead he embraces the challenges because it makes him stronger as a player.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
When I study films, my main focus is to study what I did incorrectly and learn from them so I do not repeat the same mistake. I make sure to write down every play and the errors made and work on them physically and mentally. When reviewing film on my opponent I first start by focusing on the o-line to see if they have any tendencies I can exploit. Second, I review the schemes the offense does and try my best to analyze what they do so I can put my team and myself in the best possible position, regardless of the cadences they do, what run play they have a tendency to run the most, and or what different sets by the O-line are doing. Finally, I would consult with my coach to ensure I fully understand the game plan and ensure I do not repeat the same mistakes.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What separates me from other prospects at my position is that I am very knowledgeable of my position. My skill sets allow me to play all four downs without being substituted. I have the ability to recognize the play the offense is going to run and I put myself in a position to make a play and stop the offense from moving forward. In addition, I can be a straight hands down pass rusher; I have a versatile of moves that I’m capable of using. I am able to drop back and cover if needed. If necessary, I am able to go down into the three-techniques at times and rush. I am able to handle the run and stop it. Last, I’m disciplined at my position and I can handle anything that comes my way.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
For my offseason I was working with my strength coach Brad Packer at PSU training for the Pro Day to showcase my speed and explosiveness at my position. Once that is completed, I have plans to return home in Florida to continue intense training with Nick Soto at Elite U Sports Academy to work on my speed, footwork, strength and techniques in order to prepare for the professional level.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Again, I’m a work alcoholic and I will not stop learning new football fundamentals to better myself so I help the team to win more games. In addition, I’m a humble person that will always put the team’s goal first before myself.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL/CFL or any other pro leagues?
My Final pitch to the NFL or any pro leagues is that If I’m afford the opportunity to play in the league, I will give it my all both on and off the field. Because it is a great honor for me to play professional football. Therefore, I will accomplish my goal of playing professional football since I’ve been playing youth football. Overall, I’m a team player and am there for my team no matter what. I’m a sponge when it comes to learning and improving my skills. I do not stray away from constructive criticism but instead welcome it because it will help improve my game and me as a person. Additionally, I continuously review and study films in order to improve my game. The league will absolutely have no issues with me on and off the field. You can expect me to always put my team first before myself. Thank you for the opportunity the league will provide me to play professional football.
