Name: Nino Schmitt
School: Missouri S&T
Position: C

Height: 5’11”
Weight: 300

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

My goals this year was to beat all my stats My main goal during my senior year was to work on being a very consistent player in all aspects of my game. Being a shorter offensive lineman made me realize that consistency is a requirement for greatness, especially for people with size disadvantages. I knew I had to prove myself every day in every rep if I wanted the recognition I thought I deserved. One quote that always inspired me was along the lines of “undersized guys have to prove that they CAN play, while big guys have to prove they CANT play.” last year and just be a better player overall, but most importantly try to win a conference championship!

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

I used my extra year to make sure all aspects of my game were at an elite level. I worked really hard on my hands, feet, and body positioning, and as a result I became extremely consistent in pass protection and picking up blocks on the second level, two areas I feel that I lacked in before.

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

My coaches would say that I’m extremely easy to coach and one of the hardest workers on the team. My teammates might say something similar but they would probably talk more about my toughness and my ability to maintain composure during tough game situations.

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

During film study I try to get any edge I can on the guys I’ll be playing against. At S&T we would study our opponents film individually and then share our intel as a group in meetings. I always make note of the pass rush moves each player might use, or how their alignment might give a clue to a stunt or twist. For example, if two d-lineman or linebackers were at different levels off the ball it may indicate they are going to twist, the 2nd man being farther off the ball to give himself room to loop over top of the other man. Then in the game if I saw that alignment I could set vertically to let the twist play out and pick it up easier.

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

What separates me from other OL prospects is my wide range of techniques and my mobility as an offensive lineman. After playing ball for 16 years I have a diverse toolbox of techniques that I can utilize to beat any look a defender will give me. For example, when pass setting a head up nose at the center position, I like to use my non-snapping hand to punch the defenders chest at the same as I snap the ball, immediately stopping his rush. In addition to my technique, I think I have better mobility than most prospects, especially when I pull outside on sweep plays and get out on screens.

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

To prepare for professional opportunities, I will prioritizing gaining size and explosiveness. I will maintain my technique and mobility/conditioning by hitting up the football field frequently, but I will also do plenty of high volume and plyometric training in the gym, and eat a lot of nutrient dense food.

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

For me what will stand out on and off the field is my drive to do the right thing. Being a part of a team is a huge honor for me, so I buy into my team’s goals 100%. That’s means I’ll do whatever it takes to get my job done, including helping my brothers do their job, so the team can be great. I also live my life off the field with the intention of doing the right thing. I make important decisions and form my opinions with the greater good of the world in mind, as should anyone who wants to make the world a better place.

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

My final pitch to professional teams: if you sign me, I will be on a mission to make an impact and make your team better. You’ll get a versatile offensive lineman who will get after dudes every day at practice, make others better, and work as hard as anyone to get the job done. I’d be honored to be considered by any professional team out there.