Name: Matthew Stephenson
School: Colorado State University-Pueblo
Position: DB
Height: 5’9”
Weight: 176
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
The goal I set and accomplished this year was to become a great leader/Teammate to not only my younger teammates but all of them. I feel I accomplished this goal and my teammates & coaches would say the same.
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 the Covid year by training the whole spring semester with current NFL players Dorance Armstrong Jr. & Jamal Perry. They not only helped me prepare physically but they also gave me inside knowledge on how to carry myself as a professional.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches & teammates would say I’m a very passionate player that gives my all every single snap and very dependable in all situations.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When studying film of opponent’s I try to give myself an upper edge by studying Top Formations, Down & Distance tendencies, and WR press releases this way when the game comes around I feel confident in my preparation which allows me to play even faster.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What separates me from other DB’s in this year’s draft is my versatility. I have played and been productive at all DB positions in college and played under 3 different Defensive Coordinators in my 4YRS of playing & all having different preferences from Zone to Man-to-Man.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I am currently training at Bommaritos Performance in North Miami. Training with Pete is one of the best decisions i made in my preparation for the NFL. He is well known around the NFL and his work is very credible. The training is second to none and i will show the results with a great pro day this March.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
My speed and ability to break down the game are all things that separate me on the field. My intelligence and time management skills are also key with me being able to manage a 18hr course schedule this fall while playing a productive season and obtain a bachelor’s degree shows I have a high mental capacity.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
If you choose to invest in me it will be a decision you will not regret. I know that my size and level of play history is something that scares a lot of teams off but I’m here to tell you I play just as big as anyone in between the lines I just need an opportunity to showcase that. My whole life i have been an underdog and been defeating the odds and refuse to stop now.