Name: Dast Sturkie Jr
School: Shaw University
Position: DE
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 260
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
My main goal for my final collegiate season was to prove that my Junior year wasn’t a gimmick. I made a name for myself, and I wanted to prove that I have NFL talent.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
Honestly, by mentally preparing myself and training. With all the extra time, I made sure I was mentally good just as physically good I was. That’s what helped me out.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
They would say I’m one of the hardest working people they know. They would say I’m passionate. A great teammate and a great leader. I push each and everyone to perform or to do anything they are doing to the best ability.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
Tendencies. What stands out that catch my eyes when someone does a certain thing. Once you find tendencies that tells you what play is about to be ran, or if it’s run or pass, you are not playing against the man in front of you anymore, you’re playing against the coordinator.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
My drive. When all things don’t work out the way I may planned it, i pivot and find another way. My ability to keep pushing forward would make me stand out, I never give up. Also, I’m willing to help any team any way I can. I’ll play anywhere or do whatever it takes for team success.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
Right now I am doing pro day training, field work, and working with a track coach to prepare myself for 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?
Being a technician is my biggest strength. I do exactly what need to be done. I do my assignment. My ability to learn and retain will be a boost. I’m not the guy you have to keep going over things with.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
My final pitch is that, I work hard for everything I have and how for I’ve become. Plenty setbacks and I kept pushing to get this opportunity. I believe in myself. Whichever team that decides to take a chance on me will get a hard working athlete, a go getter, an honorable and humble person. I’ll keep fighting and grinding until I get there.