Name: John Hurst
School: West Georgia
Position: WR
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 190
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
For the team I wanted to win conference and win the national championship. We weren’t able to get it done but it was good to see a GSC team win the national championship again this year and represent our conference well. Personally, I had set a goal to be first team all-conference and I am grateful to have been able to accomplish that.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I think they would say that I am dependable. On the field they can count on me to do my job, make a big play, and give full effort at all times. Off the field they can count on me to excel in the classroom, help younger guys with the playbook, and just go above and beyond of what’s asked of me.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
I watch film in 3 ways. First, I watch myself to see what I do well and what I am doing wrong. Some things I focus on are effectiveness in my releases, efficiency in getting in and out of routes, and how well I change tempo or attack blind spots. Second, I watch opponent film to see tendencies and different strategies. And then third, I watch top NFL guys and see what they do well and try to apply it to my game. I like to watch releases from guys like Keenan Allen and Davante Adams or routes by OBJ or Stefon Diggs.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
There is talent everywhere at the wide receiver position, however, I believe my mind is what separates me from a lot of prospects. I think I have a high football IQ and can understand a playbook or defensive coverages well. I am always wanting to learn and love to utilize the mind in football.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I will be training at a facility in Gwinnett, GA called U48 with Manny Rodriguez. Manny has done an excellent job preparing guys for their pro days and getting them ready for every aspect of the 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?
When a team gets me they will get a guy who takes pride in catching everything that comes his way, has a lot of speed, plays hard, and runs precise routes. They will get a competitor who is always thinking of ways to beat the guy in front of him. They will get a guy who is wanting to learn and be the best player and person he can be. And they will get a guy who is selfless and wants to be a positive influence on and off the field.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL or any other pro leagues?
I know I have the talent to play at the next level, I just need an opportunity. I am a former D2 walk-on who will always have a chip on my shoulder to prove the doubters wrong and take advantage of every opportunity before me.