Name: Brandon Mincey
School: Southeast Missouri State University
Position: MLB
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 230

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

Going into my senior season I had many goals set. Some of the overall goals I set was to win conference and make the FCS playoffs. Personally for myself I set goals to make First Team All Conference, Defensive Conference Player of the Year, Buck Buchanan Award Finalist, and many more. Even though I did not achieve every goal, I was blessed to make First Team All OVC this year.

Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?

I took advantage of the extra season by proving that I have the talent and abilities to play at the next level. Not only did I make First team All-Conference but if anyone looks at my film, I feel it speaks for itself. I also give credit to my linebacker coach Nate Dreiling, who is now the defensive coordinator at New Mexico State University. His coaching allowed me to play faster and play freely in an NFL scheme defense. I also gained next level knowledge from him and what is expected at the next level.

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

I believe my coaches and teammates will say that I am a leader, I am passionate, someone that works hard, someone that wants the best from his teammates, a playmaker and someone that puts the team before himself.

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

When it comes to film studying, the main thing I look for is an offense’s main formations and what plays are ran. As far as the run game, I look at if it will it be inside zone or outside zone. In the passing game I look for what route concepts are ran out of those different types of formations. I also, look for alignment from the running back and wide receivers/tight ends. This allows me to get a head start of when a run or pass play is most likely coming.

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

I feel what sets me apart from other linebackers is that I am not just your typical hard nose linebacker that can only play the downhill run game. I am athletic enough to go out in man to man coverage and cover any tight end or running back. Whether they are lined up in the box or if they are displaced as a receiver, I know that I can follow them and 9 times out of 10 they will not catch the ball on me.

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

This off-season I plan to go through my pro day training with Bommarito Performance Training. This is a training facility back home in Miami, Florida that has had some of the best athletes in the NFL to come and train with them. Some notable NFL players that have prepared for the combine and their pro day at this facility are, Lavonte David, Tyreek Hill, Von Miller, and many more.

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

My strengths and abilities that I will bring to a team is that I am athletic enough to play in any defensive package. I am the type of linebacker that does not have to come off the field in third and long when the nickel and dime package is brought into the field. I truly believe with my ability I am able to play man to man coverage, zone coverage, blitz the quarterback, and stop the run.

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

A team should take a chance on me because they will get someone that is a dog and the complete package. They will get someone that is not only great on defense against the run or pass game, but also, someone that can make an impact on special teams. Most players may not understand the importance of special teams effect on the game. One small mistake on special teams can place your offense or defense in a bad position. A team will also get a player that is confident in what I bring to the table, but also someone that will not only work hard in the presence of everyone, but also behind closed doors. A team will get a player that is disciplined on the field, in the film room, and the weight room. There is always room for improvement and I will improve in all aspects of my game.