Name: Dakota Cox
College: New Mexico
Position: Linebacker
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 230
Q: If you could describe your style of play in 3 words, what would they be?
Dakota: Physical, Relentless, Smart.
Q: How are you going to train/prepare this offseason in preparation for the draft or other pro opportunities?
Dakota: I have done my training at the University of New Mexico since I started training for pro day back in January. The strength staff has created a great workout program for me to prepare myself to not only get bigger, faster, and stronger, but also be ready for an opportunity in the NFL.
Q: If you could compare yourself to one current or former NFL player who would it be and why?
Dakota: I believe that the way I play most replicates Zach Thomas. He is a guy that had a very high football IQ. He played with a lot of intensity and was able to be very productive in his NFL career. I believe that the intensity I bring to the field combined with the football knowledge that I have relates to the way he played.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on or look for?
Dakota: When I watch film I look for tendencies that different players have. All football players have a certain way they play the game and the more you can understand their tendencies, the better you can play against them.
Q: What separates you from other players at your position?
Dakota: I am a linebacker that plays 100 mph all the time. I give full effort every play and play whistle to whistle. It has been my effort that has made me the player I am today. I also am very coachable and have a high football IQ. I believe it is all those qualities that has allowed me to lead my team in tackles 4 years in a row as well as pick up many All-Conference Awards. These things are what separates me from many others in the Linebacker position.
Q: What kind of abilities would you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Dakota: I believe I am a unique player. I was a three-time team captain at UNM and a four-year starter. With that being said, I am one that always handles my business on and off the field. I was able to graduate in three years with my Finance Degree, and started working on my Masters Degree in Sports Administration, all while earning many Academic All-Conference Honors. I believe that my productive career shows my work ethic and my discipline that I put in to everything I do on and off the field, and I think that can help me succeed at the next level.
Q: What is your final pitch/sell to NFL and other pro league scouts?
Dakota: I am a linebacker that is very versatile. I have four years of film to back up my quality numbers I put up at pro day. While being a four-year starter, I also started on many special teams, which shows that I can be productive in many spots in the NFL. I believe that with my effort that I give on every play and my love for the game, I would be a great contribution to any team.
