Name: Lucas Ruiz Diaz
School: Colorado Mesa University
Position: K
Height: 5-9
Weight: 190

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

A goal that I wanted to accomplish was to become a leader and a mentor for the young kickers that were behind me. I think it’s important to pass on lessons so that when it is their time they can be successful as well. I fell short on some of my personal goals, but it was a good lesson for me to keep pushing hard.

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

My coaches and teammates would say that I have great work ethic both on the field and off the field. They would say that I try to perfect my craft everyday and that I do not settle for mediocrity. They would say that I am very routine and detail oriented, and everything I do in my preparation is for a good reason.

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

There are a few things I study when watching film. I watch my approach to the ball, timing on field goals is extremely important so I want to be fast, but controlled on my way to the ball. I watch my body position and follow through to make sure I am maximizing my power and kicking the ball exactly where I want it. It is also important for me to watch the ball trajectory and height on kicks. I also watch film for mental preparation and use it as a motivator and confidence booster.

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

I am always going to be one of the hardest workers in the room. When something is not going right I always work to fix it. I might fall, but I always get up.

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

I will be training in both Grand Junction, CO and Denver, CO. I am focusing a lot on mental strength and I have been working with mental strength coach Art Berlanga. I am also focusing on getting physically stronger. I attended the FAF senior bowl in NY, College Gridiron Showcase, and will be competing at the Kohl’s Kicking Combine in San Diego in February.

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

One of my strengths that I think will separate me is my experience. I was a 5 year starter at CMU. I believe my ability to perform under pressure will stand out on the field. Off the field I love mentoring and helping kids, so whatever community I end up in I will volunteer to mentor kids and I would work to establish my own foundation that helps and mentors kids.

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

I may not always be perfect, but I work hard and always give my best effort. To whatever team and organization takes a chance on me, you will get someone who shows up early and stays late, has an outstanding work ethic and strives to get better everyday, helps teammates with anything, and will be responsible socially outside of the team.