Name: Shannon Warren
School: Howard Payne University
Position: RB
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 215
Q: In your final collegiate season, what goals did you accomplish this fall or set for this upcoming spring?
Well due to COVID-19 and not having a season, I can say that I achieved my academic goal. I set my mind to getting recognized by the next level and worked out more than I normally do. Being raised by two retired military parents is no joke. My spring goal was to receive pro-combine and bowl game invites. That has happened too. I am so blessed for these upcoming opportunities.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I have already been told not only by my teammates in the past and present and my coaches that I have the athletic knowledge, skills, and abilities to play at the next level. They have also complimented me of my leadership and teaching abilities to the underclassmen.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
Watching and absorbing game film allows me to learn from my mistakes and see things from another point of view. With my speed and agility, I learn new techniques and moves from other players. When I study film, I consume it and apply my God-given talent to see where I can improve any mistakes made during the game. I do not plan on failing or making those same errors ever. As a running back, the team is counting on me so my job is to study the opponents moves, defensive styles and their timing on how fast can they come at me and I not be tackled. Studying film at the pro level is extremely important and I am ready to go to the next level to do it.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
Things that separate me from other pro prospects is that I listen and can lead. I listen with my eyes and ears both on and off the field. I am respectful and trustworthy. My athletic abilities to run the ball is impeccable. I have the speed, vision, knowledge of the game and position, eyes on my opponent’s direction for me to move down the field past them, never giving up, truly passionate about this game, very hard on myself to perfect my skills and no I am not perfect but coming from a Christian family, I have learned that I must speak things as though they were.
Q: What is your plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities, especially with the virus limiting pro days/training facilities/etc?
I have my own personal equipment (i.e., bands, weights, ladders, cones, etc.) that I use. My trainer has provided me with a schedule that I can use as a guide too. For moral support and pointers, I reach out to my mentor who was a running back for the KC Chiefs. I will work out twice a day. I start out in the mornings with speed & agility training and in the evenings are my strength & conditioning trainings on Monday through Friday. The weekends will be my treatment trainings (cupping, Cryo) unless they are closed due to COVID. I also accepted invites to participate in the FBS Tropical Bowl as well as the BSN National Combine.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
We have room to learn and grow, but I will say when I run the ball, that I am a North/South runner that will give my team positive yardage always. I do not have to boast or brag about my athletic abilities. I am dependable, coachable, honest, flexible, friendly, hardworking, expressive, formal, punctual and a true team player. All these traits are needed both on and off the field that defines me.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL/CFL or any other professional leagues?
As an overlooked athlete that never gave up, I can assure to you that your time will not be wasted. I got my mind right and want to show and thank that coach for not helping me. What he did has made me a better, strong man and athlete. I have the size, skill, speed, agility, and vision of this game just like others and even better. We all want to go to the next level, but in my case, I have what it takes and am ready to perform in front of every scout at this event. I promise I will not let anyone down. All I need is for you to open the door for me and I will do the rest.