Name: Darius Hypolite
School: Austin College
Position: DB
Height: 5’8″
Weight: 155

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

My goals were to have a better season than last year after a disappointing 2-8 season, become All-conference, and be a Leader. I know my first was a team goal, but I remember when school let out our head coach told us we would be the first losing class he had in 20 plus years. One quote he said that stuck with me was that you have to hate to lose before you can win. We went out with a bang like I said in my interview with the news going 5-5. Wasn’t the best season to some people but we improved. I took the next step in becoming a leader as I was very vocal on defense getting people aligned right and telling them what we were running. This helped me become a better player and led me to becoming All-Conference.

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

Coaches and teammates would call me a field general. Coaches would say I was very versatile as you could play me at all 4 defensive back spots as I wouldn’t miss a beat. A great leader as I was also named team captain.

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

When watching film, I watch the QB to see what tendencies I can pick up so I can disguise my coverages. Is the QB a towel grabber, handclapper, and where are his eyes pre-snap and post snap. Also, the O-Line the tackles give me run and pass reads by the high hat or low hat. When looking at Wrs I like to see what their favorite routes are. This helps me know how to play my matchup.  Also, what route combinations do they like to call in certain situations. For example, teams have plays they like to call to pick up third downs. Important to know so we can get off the field.

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

I would say my knowledge of the game. Once you become a student of the game you can see the game in a different perspective. I can play every position in the secondary as this can help with personal changes.

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

Keeping my body in good shape by staying flexible. Yoga and stretching everyday helps greatly with strength and speed training. I also work out with my trainer as he gives me good advice about football on and off the field.

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

I bring high football intelligence, coachable, and versatility to the team. One of our principles at Austin college was proudly represent. Meaning do the right things on and off the field as I not only represent my school but my coaches and teammates also.

Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL/CFL or any other pro leagues?

Given the opportunity to play at the next level would be a blessing. All I know is one thing is for certain in life and that in this world is all you have is your name. I have faced many challenges and no matter how big the challenge is I will embrace that because it will only make me better.