Name: Arnold “AJ” Crayton
School: Missouri Western State University
Position: DE
Height: 6-3
Weight: 250

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

This final collegiate season I had high aspirations for myself and for the team. Unfortunately, came up short in the team aspect by ending with a losing season. Personally, I had goals like being an All-American and breaking the sack record. I didn’t cross the finish line fully, but I did break the All-Time list in sacks. This last season taught me a lot of things about myself and how to handle adversity when its constantly presents itself on the consistent basis.

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

From my first snap to my last, all coaches and players throughout the journey would say that I was a leader amongst others at times. Either it came from the way I played on the field or vocalizing things that needed to be said. No one could question my love nor my work ethic when it came to the game. I challenged others each an everyday in the weight room and on the field. When closing on my last year the young guys would come to me for advice which said a lot looking back now.

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

As a Defensive lineman there’s so much to process in just a short amount of time. Watching film highlighted certain keys of guys that I had to face each week. First starting with the quarterback, I want to know if he trust his O-Line by staying in the pocket or does he feel pressure easy and takes off to the sidelines. This helps with my pass rush knowing how valuable keeping contain is for the certain week. Next the Tackles, generally my focus would be on these guys all week since I would have to face them each and every snap. I’d look for keys like does he like to be patient with his hands or is bear hug type of guy. Would I need to use power or speed when threatening the edge. Is he exceptionally quick when moving lateral. Like I said a lot of things to look for in just a short amount of time. The beauty of it is, watching film consistently eliminates half of the progressions I would have to think about when stepping on the field.

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

Knowing the game and having football IQ is vital when talking about playing at the highest level. I separate myself with wanting to learn more and being able to accept coaching. Playing the game as if your coaching it takes you from being two steps away to actually making the play. My passion for the game is second to none. Ask anyone that played with me its live,eat, and breathe football.

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

Currently training at D1 Dallas after being recommended by countless resources. Many pro athletes have been through here and it shows. The coaches know exactly what their doing. I am receiving 1 on 1 training to solely focus on the things I need to improve on. To help along side of that I have the right supplementation and meal plan due to S2 Faction out in Zona Rosa (Missouri).

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

What I bring to table is Passion, Work Ethic, and Faith. It’s easy to get distracted while playing the game especially when it comes to mental health. As a teammate to others you are considered family which extends all the way till you are no longer living. On and off the field brings a brother that stands with the team through the good and the bad.

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

There’s ballers in every level of the game. Been the dream since I was youngin. My uncle Neil Smith played in the NFL 10 plus years. So I can say I been invested in this game all of my life. When the opportunity presents itself, there will be no question that all the preparation and sacrifices will be exemplified. I’m willing to play for any team that is willing to give me a shot. NFL, CFL, XFL, USFL… “Im coming”.