Name: Rodney Samson
School: Merrimack College
Position: LB/KR
Height: 6-1
Weight: 230

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

A goal that I set for this past season was to win a conference championship. This meant taking on a larger role as a leader and pushing my teammates to reaching their full potential.

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

My coaches and teammates would say I’m a leader and resilient. I was voted team captain because I lead by example and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to succeed. I was the person trying to keep the team calm during the “storm”. When things aren’t going right I’m the first person to step up and tell everyone to settle and just play our game.

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

When I’m studying film i mainly focus on tendencies and personnel so I can put myself in the best position to make plays. If I can have a idea of where the ball is going before the snap, it makes my job 10x easier. 

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

One thing that separates me from other pro prospects in my position is my ability to cover. Merrimack is a man free defense so I grew accustomed to guarding Running backs out the back field and TE/WR split out wide. As long as I play with my technique I will always be in good position to make a play on the ball. I was also a 3x all conference Kick Returner as a linebacker which is s very rare thing to see.

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

My off-season plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities is training at Athletic Evolution in Wilmington Massachusetts. Mainly focusing on speed and my flexibility.

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

My biggest strength that will stand out on and off the field would be my care factor of the game of football. I’m always doing extra rehab, extra lifts, extra film sessions because I know doing the bare minimum won’t bring the best performance out of me. I’m willing to do whatever to make sure I can perform at a high level.

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

My final pitch to any Pro team is that if you get me, you’re getting a coachable and versatile athlete that will make plays wherever you put me.