Name: AJ Hardin
School: Quincy University
Position: WR
Height: 6-3
Weight: 205
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
I had a few individual Goals that I wanted to accomplish, I wanted to eclipse the 1000 yards mark in a season while simultaneously having 10+ touchdowns. I wanted to be All-conference, and an All-american. I wanted to be a two time team captain. As for team goals, I wanted to beat our Illinois rivals, Mckendree. I wanted to go over .500 for the first time in a long time in our school history. And finally, Everyone should have the goal and mindset of winning a conference championship.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I think they would say I am a passionate football player, and a reliable key on the field, but more importantly off the field I think they would say I am a dependable and accountable person, willing to do anything to help the success of myself and my brothers on my team.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When studying myself, I always look for my weaknesses in my game and technique. I look for little things and habits like false stepping out of my releases, taking too many steps at the top of certain routes, trying to better my stacking on vertical routes, etc. As for watching DB’s I try to find tendencies in them before I play them. I start with the defense and the shell as a whole, trying to see what coverages they like the most. Then I focus on the corner’s and my primary matchup, I’m big on body language and trying to find a chink in the armor.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I think what separates me the most is my underdog mentality, I have a huge chip on my shoulder from being counted out and doubted many times to where I have no choice but to perform. Another thing I will say that separates me are just my traits in general, I am unselfish with my teammates and trust them to make the big play just like I believe I can.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
My plan is to put my head down and grind, just to prepare and keep myself ready so I don’t have to get ready.
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 think my versatility is my biggest strength. I am naturally an outside receiver, but I have the ability to be moved around the offense and not miss a beat. I also believe my ability to get open and win my 1 on 1’s is a big strength as well. As far as off the field my strength comes from the program that I just left. I had a coaching staff led by my head coach Gary Bass that truly taught me the value of trusting and having faith in your teammates, without trust a team can’t go anywhere. I have the ability to bring and keep a locker room together and build as much chemistry as we can to reach the common goal.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I just want teams to know that they would be getting a player that is constantly seeking knowledge and growth. That they are getting a passionate player that is ready to work. I think I have good enough tape to show my abilities on the field, but I want teams to know they are getting a man of great character as well. Someone who is hungry and is waiting for the opportunity to prove it.