Name: Michael Smith
School: West Texas A&M University
Position: DE
Height: 6-0
Weight: 254
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
Some goals I had for this year was to become a All-American, Win Conference, and go as far as we can in playoffs but, unfortunately we came up short and I had a season ending injury. So my role as the season went on was to be a good positive teammate.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates will say that I am a discipline player, I bring a lot of energy during practice and games. I am a player that works hard for everything and I have a lot to bring to the table. I am good pass rusher in 3rd and long, you can count on me to get after the quarterback. I can also stop the run wherever they put me. I am a leader on and off the field and I lead by example. You won’t have to worry about off the field troubles with me and I’m a very coachable player that love the game of football.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
While studying film I focus on how my body language is sometimes, and watch what mistakes I make so in the future I won’t make the same mistakes again. I watch how the offensive line work together and focus on the key guys I go against week by week. Then I figure out what are their strengths and weaknesses then list them down. I will breakdown the 1st, 2nd and 3rd down situations they put themselves in. I try to set myself up to be in the best position as possible.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What separates me from the other pro prospects at the Defensive End position is my IQ of the game. I can breakdown a plays before it starts and I can make in game adjustments by communicating with my coaches. When my team needs me to make a play I can do it when it matters the most.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
My plans are to go back to Kansas City and train with my trainer I been with for the last 2 years. We plan to work on my change of direction, strength training, agility, footwork and explosiveness.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
The kinds of strengths and abilities I will bring to my team on the field is that I am relentless, high football IQ, physical, coachable, good special team player and I have control passion for the game. I respect my teammates and coaches. The kinds of strengths I will bring to my team off the field is loyalty, respect, honesty and commitment.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
To the NFL or any other pro leagues, all I am asking for a opportunity to be seen so I can prove my skill set, passion for the game of football. I’m not the player with all of the accolades or all the awards but I also understand the game isn’t a individual sport. This is the stuff that motivates me to be better and to prove that my game speaks louder than words. I promise you that I will be the hardest out working player under any organization and I will never stop working for something I am so passion about and I know I can play at the next level.
