Name: Antwan Shipp
School: Capital University
Position: RB
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 180
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
The biggest goal that I set and accomplished for my final collegiate season ..was to be able to play football again. Last season was the first time I stepped back onto a football field in two years after an injury sidelined me for what felt like forever. So just being able to play again was a goal for me and I can say at this point I definitely knocked it out of the park! And I owe that all to God.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
Having an extra year of eligibility most certainly allowed me to put my name back out there for everyone to see again. This past season I worked a lot more on special teams than I’ve ever done before and I can do it all. Whether that’s tackling on KO, Punt, picking up blocks in the return game or even returning kicks myself which I do very well if I may add.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I would like to think my coaches and teammates will say that I am a leader and a very selfless, determined, coachable, and hardworking individual. A player that’s going to give 110% and push through anything to get the job done.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
Even though I play running back when watching film I like to focus on the defense as a whole trying to figure out the coverage and what they like to do on certain down and distances. Naturally, though I put more of an emphasis on the linebackers and the D-line. Seeing if they like to blitz, do stunts and twists you know? That kind of stuff. And really watching for the impact players on their defense. Knowing all of these things before playing a team helps to improve my game because now I know what to look for and how to potentially handle it/them when the time comes.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I can honestly say what separates me from other prospects is my mentality and my drive. Most will say how they are determined to do whatever it takes. I WILL SHOW IT. I’m not just going to talk about it I will do whatever I have, to prove I more than deserve a chance at the next level no matter the league. I’ve worked too hard for too long not to see all this through.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
My off-season plans will consist of staying in the gym and staying ready. I know what I need to work on so In the downtime I will add the necessary weight that I need and keep my speed up for when I get that call from whoever is willing to give me a shot. I will always be 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, my work will speak for itself. You’re going to get one hell of a player that’s going to do whatever is asked of me. Whether that’s playing special teams, being an every-down back, or someone that comes off the bench to provide a spark here and there for the team. My speed, elusiveness, vision, and “surprising” ability to run downhill are a few strengths and abilities that are going to stand out on the field. Off the field, I will bring NO unwanted issues to the team or organization. So they will never have to worry be me being caught up in the public eye giving a back look. I will, however, try to give back to my community in some way shape, or form once I am able to.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
My final pitch to any league is don’t be afraid to take a chance on a small school kid simple as that. All we ever need is a chance to shine and I know for a fact we will do just that. With that being said no matter who decides to give me that chance I will be extremely grateful for the opportunity.