Name: Darrin Gentry Jr
School: Midland University
Position: WR/RS
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 195
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
Well me, I came pretty late into the year as far as playing wise, coming into the season, I just wanted to be a mentor to the young guys and make sure they were on the right page, guiding them in any way I could. I just wanted to come in and make plays when my number was called. I ended up finishing 3rd all time in Career Receiving Yards and Top 5 in Career Receiving TDs, so that was a great accomplishment for me.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
I believe I increased my chances by really focusing on the little things that you need to play at the next level, in and out of breaks, always catching the ball with any extra time I had and blocking, all the things you need to play at the next level. I would also say paying close attention when watching film and scouting the opponents.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I think they would say that I’m a great teammate and selfless. I wanted to be the best teammate I could to the young guys.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
The things I focus to improve my game while watching film are studying the opponents mannerisms, see what they like to do, how they back peddle, how they take on contact, if they like to press and how they play the ball in the air. Some things you can do on the fly in the game but it is very important to watch your opponent.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I feel what separates me is being relentless. Making sacrifices when need be. Playing for the other guys on my team. Me having confidence in my ability and the hard work that I put in over the off season. I feel any ball in the air is mines. On another note, I take pride in blocking, not many guys take blocking serious, and I feel as if I’m one of the best blockers in this draft class.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
My off season plan is to get better in the areas that I struggle with. I will be training pretty much everyday, having a trainer back home and out here at school is a plus because you can get work in in both places. Working on 40s and different drills to get me ready for that next level.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Just me as a person, on and off the field, I want to see everyone win. I want to see everyone Succeed. Like I said earlier, I feel as if my blocking really sets me apart from others, when you have the ability to catch on the perimeter and make guys miss and block your butt off, you don’t really find guys like that. I also can play on your special teams and make plays there as well. Off the field, being a great teammate, helping guys and being a trustworthy teammate.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
My final pitch would be, if you are looking for a guy to make plays, help wherever help is needed, be a great teammate, and just a great person to be around, then I’m your guy. Film doesn’t lie and I’m ready to compete and make guys better.