Name: Lionell Wiggins
School: Northern Arizona University
Position: DE
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 245
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
I really was just willing to do whatever it takes to help my team win which was mainly the first thing. After that came watching extra film to help study my opponents and do my one of eleven. I think I had accomplished and took advantage of my opportunities on the field by not losing the edge and letting the ball carriers get pass me or letting the quarterback out of the pocket.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
I took advantage of this extra year by working on my weaknesses and getting more film. I had got better at watching film, developed more pass rushes in my game, got stronger and faster. Also I had showed my versatility to show that I can play to the field and boundary side as well show I can cover tight ends.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
They would say I am very coachable and have a strong work ethic. They will also mention my willingness to learn and do whatever it takes for the betterment of the team.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
Watching film I start off going straight to studying my opponents which are mainly the Tackles and the TEs if they are attached to the line of scrimmage in a Y on or Y off set. When studying them I look at the small details and the things that people will mostly miss. For example, when studying film, I had studied a tackle and whenever he was in a three point stance, he was always down blocking and when he was upright, he was pass setting. I would also look at the running backs and quarterbacks as well. Like if the running back was scanning the field he was pass blocking and if the quarterback would wipe his hands on his towel before the snap, he was getting ready to pass.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I believe what would separate me from the other prospects is my willingness and my versatility on the field. As I mentioned before, I am always willing to do whatever is best for the team to become successful. Also with my versatility, I have played every position on the field except Oline. I played both sides of the field in high school, JUCO I played wide receiver, safety and defensive end. When I got to San Jose State I was at outside linebacker and special teams, then when I got to Northern Arizona I played both strong and weak side defensive end and special teams during the covid season.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
The plan is to always improve and get better at my craft because there is always room for improvement. I will be working on getting faster while continuing to get stronger. However outside the weight room, I will be perfecting my craft as a pass rusher by doing footwork drills and pass rush moves to up my game.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
On the field, will be my dawg mentality and willingness. However, my other strength will be just always taking in the coaching and always willing to learn. Off the field, I will stand out with my character and always creating opportunities for myself to become successful and make my family and team look good. I have always been a caring person so I will be getting involved in a lot of community service and giving back to my community where I grew up and along with other places.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I just hope and pray that someone believes and takes a chance on a kid who comes from a underestimated school. Whenever I get my opportunity, I will execute and show them that they made the right decision on choosing me.