Name: Brian Syracuse
School: Monmouth University
Position: OG/OL
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 315

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

For my final season at Monmouth, my top personal goals were to earn All-Big South honors and to have a seasonal game GPA of 2.9 or above. My aspirations for my team were to win the Big South championship for the third year and to return to and make a run further in the FCS Playoffs than we have before. My personal goals were reached this season as I made the All-Big South team and finished the 2021 season with a 2.90 game GPA. Unfortunately, as a team we lost in the final game of the season to Kennesaw State for the Big South Championship and a spot in the FCS Playoffs. While the season did not end the way we hoped, I am forever grateful for the dedication, determination and growth my teammates displayed battling adversity throughout year and season.

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

In 2020, the loss of the Fall season was a devastating blow to athletes across the country. But it also gave myself and others the chance to continue our growth before competing. Competing in a brief Spring 2021 schedule gave players such as myself more time to develop on the field before going pro. The more games you play, the more experience you obtain, the more developed and confident football player you become. The extension also gave me more time to hone my strength and coordination through a longer strength and conditioning program. The loss of my 2020 senior campaign helped me appreciate this game of ours more than ever, while also opening more opportunities for myself.

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

I believe they would say I am a continuously improving, goal driven type of player that is consistent and able to adapt to any given situation on the field. My teammates and coaches have been there to see my growth and development through my work ethic and my passion to improve every single day both on and off the field. My drive, competitive nature, and high expectations of myself allow me to push my limits day in and day out. I try my best to learn as much as I can from those who came before me and to lead by example for those who came after.

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

Film study is arguably the most unappreciated aspect of this game. Understanding the tendencies of your opponent can give you the slightest advantage over him, which could be a game-changing factor. Understanding how a certain alignment can increase the likelihood of a specific stunt in a scheme, or a certain move a defensive tackle likes to make in a given situation can greatly increase reaction time for an offensive lineman. Other factors I account for when studying linemen that will line up across from me is to determine their strengths, but also weaknesses I can exploit. A vulnerability to a pulling guard or a specifically effective pass rush move is an important indicator to understand beforehand in order to give yourself the best chance to react timely. The knowledge and confidence that is a direct result from proper film study preparation is instrumental in high performance.

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

My athletic ability and on field intellect fueled by my quick and decisive reaction time allows me to perform at the highest level. A combination of knowledge and multitasking ability allows me to learn new playbooks at a rapid pace. These skills provide me with a unique asset to learn an offense and implement its scheme from a wide array of teams within the league. I have in game experience playing at right guard, left guard and center as well.

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

I have been training with Val Barnaby at E.S.S.A Sports Performance Training in Tinton Falls, NJ in preparation for my pro day on Wednesday, March 9th. The goal the past few months has been to continuously improve footwork and increase both horizontal/vertical speed and strength endurance.

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

I am a strong run, efficient pass blocker and excellent puller. My key strengths come from my intelligence and consistency both on and off the field. This asset is proven in my ability to examine a defense and determine the best course of action each play regardless of the situation or defensive scheme. I have a low center of gravity and a motor that allows me to sustain a high standard of performance for a full 60 minutes. I am a determined, focused individual that leads by example. My diversity in positions I am able to play on the offensive line as well as being decisive on the field will be an asset to any team that will give me a chance.

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

Any team that gives me an opportunity would come to understand that my journey is proof of what I preach. My determination to be better than I was yesterday every time I wake up for work is the what a team would be betting on with me. My performance shows consistency and passion that provides top tier results. I can and will turn any opportunity given to me into a result-providing decision. I am driven by those who support me and to be the best I am able to be.