Name: Hunter Nichols
School: University of San Diego
Position: S/RS
Height: 6-0
Weight: 185

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

Coming off a down year for me and only being recognized as Honorable mention in the conference, I wanted to get back on the All-PFL 1st team list. That’s exactly what I did this year making not only 1st team All PFL on defense, but 1st team as a return specialist as well.

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

They would say that not only am I a great player with athleticism, but I am a very smart player as well. Throughout my five years as a starter, I’ve made huge strides with my football knowledge and could line up anywhere on the field and tell you what every position on the field is doing at all times.

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

When watching myself on film, I am constantly critiquing my footwork and my eye progression. When preparing for a game and watching film, I take note of formations, down and distance and routes being run to catch on to possible tendencies that the other teams coaching staff and players have.

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

My game speed. Going back watching myself play a game, my game speed is what truly stands me apart. Whether it’s triggering through the line of scrimmage to make a TFL or playing high safety and tracking the ball down, my top end speed hits a different level during a game.

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

For this off-season, I will be staying in San Diego and training with the USD’s head athletic trainer, Mark Lamoreaux.

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

Leadership. This year I was honored to be voted one of two team captains for my team in SD. So on and off the field, my leadership qualities will stand out.

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

What truly separates me from 99% of this draft class is my accountability and availability. From my first start freshman year in 2018 to my last start not too long ago I have never missed a start. 43 consecutive games started and 47 consecutive games played including the first four games of my career where I played special teams. I battled through injuries and illnesses and decided that nothing that I went through was going to stop me from being out there with my brothers.