Name: Zahir Wilder
School: Montclair State University
Position: CB/WR/RS
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 185

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

Before the season started I wrote down that I wanted to stamp my All-American Returner accolade that I received before the season started due to the fact that I received NJAC special teams player of the year during the spring Covid season. I also wrote down that I wanted to catch at least 8-10 interceptions in a season and score at least 4 times. After the season I received first team All-NJAC for a defensive back. I did not reach my goal for returner due to the fact that teams game plan was to kick away from me instead. I ended my career with 6 touchdowns( in 3 different phases) 30 pass break ups, 8 interceptions and 100 tackles.

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

I took advantage of this extra year by giving it all I had while mentoring the young freshman coming in, I wanted to make sure they understood the culture and how to take advantage of anytime you have to play college football with your teammates who will soon be brothers. I wasn’t really focused on going pro even though that’s the main goal, I was more focused on enjoying my season, having fun, and going out with a bang.

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

I believe my coaches and teammates would say I’m a passionate player, with a lot of heart,dedication, and someone who is reliable. They would mention my work ethic and how I would do anything for my team to succeed. They would say I’m the type of player that would sacrifice his own goals just to make sure others reach theirs.

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

When I watch film I look for my mistakes and what actually caused them. I break down what steps I can do to make sure this mistake does not happen again. If I’m talking about my CB position I study what the receiver did to make me mess up, or if it was just me not using the right technique. If I’m speaking on my WR position I’m looking for which ways I can get a faster release and how to make separation with the defender. I would always talk to my QB to let him know how I may run certain routes different then others, which helped with our connection. Kick return and punt return I just focus on which gaps usually open up and where, I also practice on being slow to fast through the hole during this phase of the game. Now if we are talking about me playing QB I make sure that I’m making the right reads and that my ball placement is great. I look for what errors are in my steps when I drop back or plant to throw, I look for the levels of my shoulders for when I’m throwing.

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

I believe what separates me from the rest is that I’m very coachable, and I’m willing to play whatever position the team needs me at without hesitation. During my college career I’ve played QB, WR, DB, KR,PR and field goal block. My passion and my heart for the game is so strong and determined for success that is shows every time I’m on and off the field.

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

My off-season plan is to get 2 lifts everyday for 4 days a week and hit the field 3 days out of the week.

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

I am a leader without being given the role. I am easy to work with and people tend to come to me for advice, direction, or just because they know I’ll be there for them, on and off the field. Having a person like this helps build connection and chemistry fast between players which will end up showing during practice and games, because the chemistry and connection between players are stronger and aren’t just teammates. I also read to special Education Students for about 13 years now, and I also helped with kids with anger management problems, so I know how to work with people outside of just wearing pads. On the field you will get out of me everything you ask for. Someone who is determined to win and be great, someone who will work hard and make a great name for the program.

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

It has always been an ambition of mine to play professionally. If given the chance, I will remain the person I am, put my best foot forward, and continue to put in the same effort that has brought me to this point. I want to be great, and I believe I am capable of doing so. I may have played division 3 ball, but it has helped me grow as a person and a player. I just hope they take a chance on a small-school kid who can make some big-time plays in all three phases of the game and make opponents reconsider their game plans. I will always go above and beyond for the team and offer my all in my role.