Name: Marque Northington
School: Southeastern
Position: WR/RS
Height: 5’8″
Weight: 185
Q: What goals did you accomplish heading into your final collegiate season?
My goal was to be an offensive leader for my team and be reliable of any situation that I came across, whether it was to score a touchdown, get a first down, gain good field position in the return game, make a big play, or be an impact blocker. Results of this was, I earned First Team All-Conference Honors as a Slot WR and Second Team All-Conference Honors as a Returner. Also, I helped lead my team to become 4 peat Sun Conference Champions!
Q: What would your coaches say about the type of player you are?
My coaches would say I’m a student of the game because of how knowledgeable I am about the WR position, route running, and defensive schemes. During games, I was always the person to notify my OC what coverages and disguises the defense was running. Also, I would help my teammates to run routes better and become smarter players. A lot of my teammates in my WR group looked up to me and always asked for advice and I was always there to help. I wanted to see my teammates succeed just as much as I wanted myself to succeed.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
When I study film, I focus on ways to run my routes better and become an overall better WR. To grow as a WR, you have to be a sponge. You have to soak in many new techniques and skills to add to your game because football is always changing and DBs are becoming more elite. WRs I study exclusively are Randy Moss, Stefon Diggs, Odell Beckham, and Julian Edelman. Also, when I study film, I focus on the techniques of how my opponent’s DBs play. I point out their strengths and weaknesses in press man, off man, tackle ability, physicality, and ball skills. I want to exploit any weaknesses they may possess.
Q: What separates you from the other players at your position?
My versatility, speed, and toughness separates me from other players at my position. At WR, I have skills, knowledge, and route running ability to play both inside and outside. Also, I can return both kicks and punts and I have the ability to play Running Back too! I may be listed as a WR and RS but, when I got the ball in my hands, I run like a running back. I know one thing, speed kills and I take pride in the speed I possess. You can’t teach toughness. I’m listed at 5’8 but, I play like a giant.
Q: How will you train and prepare this offseason for the draft or other pro opportunities?
I will be training as part of the 2019 NFL Draft Combine Training Group at FAITH Fitness and Intense Training House located in Lakeland, Florida ran by a well known trainer from South Florida, Demetri Lindsay.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
My ability to make defenders miss in space and gain a large amount of separation through my releases and route running helps me to stand out on the field. My continuous effort in community service and being a role model for the youth helps me stand out off the field.
Q: What is your final pitch or sell to NFL and other pro league scouts?
If given a chance, I will flourish. I am a man who has overcame a lot of adversity in life and proved many doubters wrong throughout my career. I consider myself a diamond in the rough. You’re getting someone who will give their all, adapt to any change, compete, and create an impact.