Name: Niko Mermigas
School:  Dartmouth College
Position: SS
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 205

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

Coming into my last season at Dartmouth I wanted to be elected team captain, but ultimately win one last Ivy League Title, both of which were accomplished.

Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?

Obviously the extra year of eligibility helped with my physically development, but I believe it was even more helpful in the film room, as I developed a deeper understanding of how the game is played specific to our defensive schemes.

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

I think my teammates and coaches would see me as someone who is intense at the right times, someone who is focused on the task at hand (winning), but also as someone who was able to effectively teach the underclassmen about our defense early in their college football career.

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

In the film room, I am not only trying to understand how to perfectly execute my job, but also trying to build an understanding of the defense as a whole. If we are prepping for a game, most of the attention is focused on QB keys/reads, and WR tendencies when running routes, as well as an offenses personnel packages.

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

I think my ability to play multiple positions is something that separates me from other prospects. I was on all four special teams as a freshman, but also played and understood the assignments for all of the positions in the defensive backfield. I also believe Dartmouth’s curriculum has taught me to understand and retain vast amounts of information in a short time frame.

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

I will be returning to Hanover, NH to train with our strength coach Spencer Brown. The weight room will be of heightened importance, as well as continued positional and field work in our new indoor facility.

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

I will be able to bring a fast physical play style to an NFL team, but also a strong football IQ that aids in smart decision making on the field.

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

My final pitch to an NFL team: I am a smart, fast, and physical player willing to play any position that will ultimately contribute to the success of the team.