Name: CJ Burress
School: Wayne State College
Position: DB
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 188
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
A lot of my goals pertained to the team as a whole because with team success comes personal recognition. I wanted to help us win our conference and to have a winning record under our new head coach. Although we didn’t win conference we did finish with the best record we’ve had as a program the last 10 years.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
I used the extra year to better learn my body, get training from some guys who have made it to the next level, get in better shape, and help guide our younger guys to be on the same page come live action to help us gain more attention from winning games.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates would say I lead by example and play with no fear. I like to know the playbook as well as the coaches to be able to make all my calls and bring anyone up to speed when injuries happen. As well as playing with no fear come with proper preparation.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When watching film I like to pick up on tendencies, although offenses change this up they always come back to the basics when the game is on the line. I like to study techniques that other DBs use to make plays as well as looking at what didn’t work to make sure I don’t put myself in that situation.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What I believe that separates me is my preparation and knowledge of the game. It doesn’t matter how big, fast, or strong your opponent is if you know where they’re going before they do.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
This off-season I plan to workout with friends from previous places who are also pro prospects as well all help each other chase a goal we’ve had since kids.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Something I will bring to a team is my toughness, versatility, playmaking ability, and high character, which will help lead and set a professional demeanor as well. I am always looking for whatever i can do to help the team improve.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
My pitch to teams in any league would be that I’m a low risk high reward guy. I’m not looking to be in the spotlight or for attention, I want to work to grind and truly do it for the love of the game. I’ve been doubted and cast away to only come back stronger each time. Whatever team lands me is getting a hard nose grinder who only looks at the stats to make sure it says W at the end of the day no matter what it took to get it.