Name: Tony Williams
School: Indiana State
Position: DT
Height: 6’1″
Weight: 280

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

Coming into the season I really wanted to focus on getting bigger and faster. I focused a lot on my conditioning, and really just being as consistent as possible. I was able to see great improvement in my conditioning. Going into camp I was in great shape and physically was where I wanted to be. Going to a junior college can put things into perspective as far as your goals, and so because of my experience with that I think the biggest goal was just making the most out of my opportunities that the season had to offer.

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

My Coaches would say that I am a hard worker, and that I am always trying to find ways to get better. They would say that I am a physical player that loves the trenches and loves contact. They would also say that I am all about going 110% every chance I get to show what I can.

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

The two things I focus on the most in film study are to notice any tendencies that I might have in certain situations. The big thing that I try to perfect is to be as consistent as possible both pre snap, and post snap. I think the more consistent a player is the harder it is to discover weaknesses, so consistency is the biggest thing for me. The two most important things about play D line are your hands, and your pad level, so making sure I am as consistent with those in the 4th quarter as much as the 1st I think is really important. As for opponents during film study I really try to focus on tendencies that the O line, quarterbacks and running backs may have that give me the upper hand. Knowing what personnel they like to run certain plays out of is a key ingredient in being focused and aware of what is going on.

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

I would say the mismatches that I can create because of my athleticism. I played running back up until my freshman year of college, so I would say that that experience helps me get past lineman. Especially ones that pride themselves on their size. Mentally my drive to be the absolute best. I went to a JUCO before I went to University, and in JUCO you learn that nothing is given everything that you want you have to earn yourself. A lot of players don’t see things the way that I have seen them because they didn’t have to go through the hardships that JUCO players have had to deal with. So that hunger and drive to earn what I earn also really separates me from other players.

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

My training has primarily consisted of a lot of cardio work, and a lot of flexibility training. I believe the offseason is the most important time of year when preparing for success. Also I predicate myself a lot on diet. I think those are the most important things when trying to get your body right. It is really important to focus on the things that need improvement. Things like mobility, and calisthenics, things that a lot of people don’t think may be super important I try to really focus on, because all of it can help with better success on the field.

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

The biggest strengths that I have are my character. I am a people person and love my teammates. I will do whatever it takes for all of us to be successful. My drive to be the best player I can be is also a big strength of mine.

Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL/CFL or any other pro leagues?

I am a very physical D line man that is versatile. I have the versatility to play both the three technique and the nose in a defensive front. My two biggest goals are to work the hardest, and to make those around me better.