Name: Clint Ratkovich
School: Northern Illinois
Position: FB/RB
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 230
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
The main goal I set for the 2021 season was to be a champion. We were able to accomplish that becoming MAC champs.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
Taking an extra year of eligibility has helped me polish my skills as a runner, blocker, and route runner. Also, being able to learn a new playbook and experience a new coaching staff has been very beneficial to understanding schemes.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My teammates and coaches would say that I am one of the toughest people they know. They would also say that I have a high football IQ.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
Watching practice is when I really critique myself and try to improve in the small areas such as hand placement on a block or stemming a defender on a route. Watching game film on other teams is where I try to exploit weaknesses on a defense or find tendencies.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
Playing a Hybrid RB/FB role, there are not many players in the NFL that can do both well. I am versatile enough to be able to line up as a true fullback with my hand in the dirt as well as split out in the slot and run receiver routes. I am also very well experience as a third down back picking up blitzes and reading defenses. Not many people in my poison can say they can do all of those at a high level.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I am planning to train at Grossetti Performance in Pennsylvania. I will train there leading up to the East West Shrine game as well as pro day.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Some of my strengths on the field include my blocking ability, catching out of the backfield, and my versatility. Some strengths off the field include my work ethic and my eagerness to learn. I am always wanting to learn more and understand the game.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
My final pitch to the NFL and other pro leagues would be, “Just know if you choose me to help improve your football team just know you are getting the hardest working and most versatile hybrid back you will ever run into. Every team I have been a part of in my life I have given everything I have in order to be successful. I will do everything it takes in order to win.”