Name: Hayden Howerton
School: SMU
Position: OL

Height: 6’3”
Weight: 305

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

My biggest goals were to win a conference championship and to be honorable mention all American. We fell short of the conference championship unfortunately but I was very proud that all my hard work paid off to be honored as an honorable mention all American by PFN.

Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?

Every offensive lineman can take advantage of more time in college. More time to mature and get bigger and stronger is always a great thing for men in the trenches. I know for sure that 2020 and 2021 were my best seasons because of my extra experience and maturity from being an older player in our program.

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

My coaches and teammates would say that I am a team first player who is physically and mentally tough as I can play through anything. Being elected by my teammates as a team captain for both the 2020 and 2021 season was the biggest honor of my life and I am thankful for all of the teammates that I’ve been lucky enough to play next to in my career.

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

When I am studying film, I’ll focus early in the week on the techniques and moves that I will see from my opponents. But once practice for the week really gets rolling, I am a technician and am extremely critical of myself. From steps, to hands, to body position/weight on my feet, i am very critical.

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

The thing that separates me from the other pro prospects at my position is that I’m someone who will out work everyone in the building, and I am someone who teams want in the locker room. I’m a culture builder as I thrive on doing things the right way, every time.

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

My off-season plan for training is to train at Landow performance in Centennial, CO to get ready for the Shrine Bowl, as well as doing my combine/pro day prep.

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

The strengths and abilities I bring to a team is my work ethic, leadership, high football IQ, nastiness in the trenches, and active eyes, hands, and feet.

Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?

I’m a winner. I will make your organization better on and off the field. I will outwork everyone in the building, bring my best every day, and come prepared to learn and improve. Drafting me would be a great decision for any organization.