Name: Joseph “Django” Marshall
School: Urbana
Position: LB
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 230
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
I asked GOD if I could have another chance to play the game of football If it was meant for me.I took it for granted the first time but GOD had a way to bring me to my knees and understand the platform I had and what I had to with it. Everything else was just a plus, it didn’t matter about individual stats or awards.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
The Grit I play with being from the west side of Chicago. You don’t hear about a lot of people making it out so the ones that do are highly favored and blessed! Also I got one speed I was taught make sure coaches slow you down never speed you up. My goal is to be able to reach back and help someone come out of the same situation I was in you know.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
I’ve learned from some of the best defensive minds in the country. ( Matt Foster, Dan Davis, Lance Guidry, Joe Nemith) first I look to see if they are no huddle team or if they are good pacing their plays to extend possession time longer. I watch the O-Line I grade each and everyone by they strengths and weaknesses. I grade everyone Qb, Rb,WR and TE. I see how the QB feet are when he’s under pressure, what’s his favorite escape route. I also do my reset on the offensive coordinator like where he coached at previous and what they offensive did, give you a better generalization of his tendencies.Its so much I can’t write it all just give an idea of how I prepare.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I think it’s my passion for the game of how much I love football I get butterflies in my stomach. I never thought I’ll love the sport like I do. I’m a physical linebacker you can’t teach it you either got it or you don’t, I can cover the TE, stop the Run I’m not afraid to hit no one ,Drop in coverage. I’m just gone get the job down no matter what it takes.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
My plan was to gain speed and maintaining my footwork. I know I’m strong and got great straight line speed so I worked on my weaknesses turning them into my strengths. Like my flexibility you can by continuing to stretch and my change of direction being a heavy linebacker. BALANCE working on my feet strength.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Just my character and my workout ethic. I was broke stretching my last dime too many times I’m not focused on my money it’ll come progressively. I know the community is behind me in whatever take a chance I only need 1 team. “It’s the ones they sleep on, those be the ones you have to watch”.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL/CFL or any other pro leagues?
This whole process been amazing. But I’m ready to come in and work towards that Lombardi Trophy and serve the community.