The 2021 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board will be rolled out during the next week by position, featuring players to watch. Today, we continue with tight ends:

*NOTE: We at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl are disappointed for those players whose senior seasons have been disrupted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In respect for those who may still play in 2021, we have altered our preseason Big Board to reflect only those seniors whose schools are actively preparing to play a fall season.

THREE TO WATCH

Miller Forristall, TE, Alabama:
Miller Forristall has a well-rounded skill set while having experience in the Crimson Tide’s “pro style” offense. The second-year starter is a very heady player who has done just about everything an offensive coordinator can ask: align all across the formation, block 6-techniques head-up, and stay in on 7-man protections to pass block, run routes and be a reliable pass catcher. Not the biggest, not the fastest, just effective at everything he does. One aspect of Forristall’s game that is particularly impressive and that does not show up on the stat sheet is his ability to adjust on the fly to pick up “color” in order to ensure the dangerous Alabama running backs have clear lanes to run through.

Kylen Granson, TE, SMU:
One of the most intriguing chess pieces in this year’s draft class is Kylen Granson of SMU who set a team tight end record last season with an impressive nine receiving touchdowns. A regional track qualifier at Austin, Texas’s renowned Westlake High School, SMU staff have timed the former Rice wide receiver in the 4.4s. Though not a prototypical “Y” type tight end at a shade under 6-3 and weighing 235 pounds, Granson battles inline blocking while not being afraid to stick his nose in the fire. The athletic mismatch poses issues for opposing defensive coordinators due to linebackers struggling with his speed and route running ability and safeties surrendering size.

Tony Poljan, TE, Virginia:
Standing at 6-7 and 265 pounds, new Cavalier tight end Tony Poljan has the distinction as being the biggest tight end prospect on this year’s preseason Big Board. A second-team All-MAC performer a season ago for the Chippewas, Poljan was a tri-sport athlete in high school who was named to Mr. Basketball Watch List prior to his senior season and opened his collegiate career at Central Michigan as a quarterback. With his long arms and frame, the Lansing, Michigan native is able to effectively cover-up defenders in the run game and box them out in the pass game, much like a center in basketball. True to his athletic background, Poljan possesses impressive ability to adjust to the flight of the ball as a receiver and owns soft hands to consistently snatch the ball away from his frame.

2021 NFLPA COLLEGIATE BOWL BIG BOARD: TIGHT ENDS

Miller	Forristall	TE	Alabama	6-5	242
Matt	Bushman	TE	Brigham Young	6-5	245
Noah	Gray	TE	Duke	6-4	240
Tre	McKitty	TE	Georgia	6-5	245
Roger	Carter Jr.	TE	Georgia State	6-2	250
Chase	Allen	TE	Iowa State	6-7	240
Trae	Barry	TE	Jacksonville State	6-6	235
Briley	Moore	TE	Kansas State	6-4	250
Justin	Rigg	TE	Kentucky	6-6	266
Josh	Pederson	TE	Louisiana-Monroe	6-5	232
Kenny	Yeboah	TE	Mississippi	6-4	240
Nick	Muse	TE	South Carolina	6-4	232
Kylen	Granson	TE	SMU	6-2	235
Tony	Poljan	TE	Virginia	6-7	265

The 2021 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board will be rolled out during the next week by position, featuring players to watch. Today, we continue with wide receivers:

*NOTE: We at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl are disappointed for those players whose senior seasons have been disrupted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In respect for those who may still play in 2021, we have altered our preseason Big Board to reflect only those seniors whose schools are actively preparing to play a fall season.

THREE TO WATCH

Dez Fitzpatrick, WR, Louisville:
Dez Fitzpatrick does a lot of things very well. The two-plus-year starter entering 2020 hasn’t put up gaudy receiving stats in his college career, but he’s been very productive for the Cardinals as a pass catcher, blocker, decoy and unselfish teammate. At 6-2 and over 200 pounds, the Waterford Mott High School product – who scored a remarkable 23 receiving touchdowns his senior season – has prototypical X-receiver size, good toughness to catch underneath in traffic, solid speed to stretch the defense on vertical routes, and natural hands to catch the ball away from his body. NFL coaches will particularly appreciate his physicality as a blocker in both the run and the pass game, and his awareness to break off his route to get back in the quarterback’s vision in scramble situations.

Osirus Mitchell, WR, Mississippi State:
One of the most physically imposing wide receivers in this year’s class at a shade over 6-4 and 210 pounds, Osirus Mitchell is a big man who can stretch the field vertically. The Sarasota, Florida native led the Bulldogs in 2019 with six touchdown catches, and each of them were for greater than 20 yards. A smooth athlete with very good body control for his size and the ability to elevate up for the ball, Mitchell can run a variety of routes while being a threat on all three levels of the field. When he’s not the quarterback’s target, he has no qualms throwing his body around as a blocker while using his length to shield defenders.

Marquez Stevenson, WR, Houston:
Marquez Stevenson is fast. Just how fast? Last year, Recruiting Analytics – a sports tech company that uses player tracking software – allegedly clocked him running at 21.9 mph! What’s equally as impressive watching him play football is how quickly he gets to full speed. Capable of playing in the slot or out wide, his ability to stick his foot in the ground and burst away from defenders underneath is elite, and he possesses a second gear downfield to separate and run under the football. Combined with soft hands that enable him to consistently catch the ball away from his body and elusiveness running to evade would-be tacklers, Stevenson is a legit NFL prospect who figures to hear his name called early in the Draft.

2021 NFLPA COLLEGIATE BOWL BIG BOARD: WIDE RECEIVERS

DeVonta	Smith	WR	Alabama	6-0	175
Austin	Watkins Jr.	WR	UAB	6-2	205
Thomas	Hennigan	WR	Appalachian State	6-1	205
Corey	Sutton	WR	Appalachian State	6-3	200
Jalen	Virgil	WR	Appalachian State	6-1	210
Jonathan	Adams Jr.	WR	Arkansas State	6-3	209
Tre	Nixon	WR	Central Florida	6-1	180
Marlon	Williams	WR	Central Florida	6-0	222
Amari	Rodgers	WR	Clemson	5-10	210
Trevon	Grimes	WR	Florida	6-4	214
Kadarius	Toney	WR	Florida	6-0	194
Demetris	Robertson	WR	Georgia	6-0	190
Marquez	Stevenson	WR	Houston	6-0	190
Andrew	Parchment	WR	Kansas	6-1	185
Josh	Ali	WR	Kentucky	6-0	188
Racey	McMath	WR	Louisiana State	6-2	221
Adrian	Hardy	WR	Louisiana Tech	6-1	193
Dez	Fitzpatrick	WR	Louisville	6-2	202
Willie	Johnson	WR	Marshall	6-0	178
Damonte	Coxie	WR	Memphis	6-2	197
Osirus	Mitchell	WR	Mississippi State	6-4	210
Dazz	Newsome	WR	North Carolina	5-10	185
Emeka	Emezie	WR	NC State	6-2	208
C.J.	Riley	WR	NC State	6-3	206
Jaelon	Darden	WR	North Texas	5-9	172
Javon	McKinley	WR	Notre Dame	6-2	220 E
Dee	Anderson	WR	Oklahoma State	6-5	225
Dillon	Stoner	WR	Oklahoma State	6-0	198
Tylan	Wallace	WR	Oklahoma State	6-0	185
Kawaan	Baker	WR	South Alabama	6-1	210
Shi	Smith	WR	South Carolina	5-10	190
Reggie	Roberson Jr.	WR	SMU	6-0	200
Tim	Jones	WR	Southern Miss	6-1	192
Josh	Palmer	WR	Tennessee	6-1	195
Tarik	Black	WR	Texas	6-3	215
Jhamon	Ausbon	WR	Texas A&M	6-2	218
JD	Spielman	WR	Texas Christian	5-9	185
Seth	Collins	WR	Texas Tech	6-2	190
T.J.	Vasher	WR	Texas Tech	6-5	190
Khalil	McClain	WR	Troy	6-4	227
Keylon	Stokes	WR	Tulsa	6-0	190
Changa	Hodge	WR	Virginia Tech	6-1	200

The 2021 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board will be rolled out during the next week by position, featuring players to watch. Today, we continue with running backs and fullbacks:

*NOTE: We at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl are disappointed for those players whose senior seasons have been disrupted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In respect for those who may still play in 2021, we have altered our preseason Big Board to reflect only those seniors whose schools are actively preparing to play a fall season.

THREE TO WATCH

Michael Carter, RB, North Carolina
Few running backs will be as “pro ready” for the NFL as UNC’s Michael Carter. A 1,000-yard rusher a season ago, the 5-9 and 195-pound back is an excellent athlete with superb vision, quick feet, a low center of gravity and deceptive strength to finish runs physically. His best trait, arguably, is his versatility to contribute as a rusher, receiver, kick returner and pass blocker. All of these things individually require mastery by a player in order to succeed at the highest level, and Carter demonstrates them on the field consistently.

Josh Johnson, RB, Louisiana-Monroe
In his first full season as a starter in 2019, Josh Johnson asserted himself as a bona fide first- and second-down rusher while eclipsing the 100-yard mark in seven games en route to 1,298 yards on the ground for the season. A thickly built, downhill runner with good vision to see the hole and the speed to get through it, the former JUCO transfer from Coahoma CC is most effective squaring his shoulders and running between the tackles. Standing at 5-9 and weighing 215 pounds is an advantage for this Warhawk RB, as he has the ability to sneak through small spaces and win the leverage battle when meeting a linebacker in the hole. Though a capable pass catcher and willing blocker, Johnson will have the 2020 season to fine tune his pass pro technique and demonstrate to NFL teams that he can be an every-down contributor.

Rhamondre Stevenson, RB, Oklahoma
Rhamondre Stevenson is a big back even by NFL standards. Listed at 6-0 and 230 pounds, it’s rare to see RBs his size with his speed and explosiveness. As a JUCO starter at Cerritos College in 2018, the Las Vegas native rushed for over 2,100 yards in only 11 games. Last year at OU, he split time in the backfield but made an impact whether he touched the ball or not. In Coach Lincoln Riley’s offense, Stevenson was asked to block when not carrying the ball, and numerous defenders felt the brunt of his power upon impact. When he did tote the rock, his instant speed allowed him to gash defenses to the tune of a team-leading 8.0 yards per carry. Aiding his average is his determination to squeak out every yard by squaring his shoulders and running behind his pads.

2021 NFLPA COLLEGIATE BOWL BIG BOARD: RUNNING BACKS/FULLBACKS

Najee	Harris	RB	Alabama	6-2	230
Brian	Robinson Jr.	RB	Alabama	6-1	226
Carl	Tucker	FB	Alabama	6-1	248
Spencer	Brown	RB	UAB	6-0	228
Rakeem	Boyd	RB	Arkansas	6-0	215
Trestan	Ebner	RB	Baylor	5-11	208
John	Lovett	RB	Baylor	6-0	212
Travis	Etienne	RB	Clemson	5-10	210
Deon	Jackson	RB	Duke	5-11	220
B.J.	Emmons	RB	Florida Atlantic	6-0	230
Mulbah	Car	RB	Houston	6-0	215
Asim	Rose	RB	Kentucky	6-1	210
Elijah	Mitchell	RB	Louisiana	6-0	221
Trey	Ragas	RB	Louisiana	6-0	227
Tory	Carter	FB	Louisiana State	6-1	250
Justin	Henderson	RB	Louisiana Tech	5-10	228
Josh	Johnson	RB	Louisiana-Monroe	5-9	215
Kylin	Hill	RB	Mississippi State	5-11	215
Larry	Rountree III	RB	Missouri	5-10	210
Michael	Carter	RB	North Carolina	5-9	195
Rhamondre	Stevenson	RB	Oklahoma	6-0	236
Ty	Chandler	RB	Tennessee	5-11	201
Quadraiz	Wadley	RB	Texas-El Paso	6-0	205
Shane	Simpson	RB	Virginia	5-9	195
Khalil	Herbert	RB	Virginia Tech	5-9	205

Believe it or not, the 2020 college football season is almost here, which means it’s time to roll out our annual NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board!

Continuing in our game’s 10-year tradition as the country’s most diverse all-star football showcase, we have compiled a list of 268 draft-eligible prospects from across the nation who are on our radar. 

*NOTE: We at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl are disappointed for those players whose senior seasons have been disrupted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In respect for those who may still play in 2021, we have altered our preseason Big Board to reflect only those seniors whose schools are actively preparing to play a fall season.

The 2021 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Big Board will be rolled out during the next week by position, featuring players to watch. Today, we kick things off with quarterbacks:

THREE TO WATCH

Zerrick Cooper, QB, Jacksonville State:
We had fun watching Jacksonville State film last year and having WR Josh Pearson participate in the Collegiate Bowl. His quarterback the past two seasons – Zerrick Cooper – now gets his opportunity to solidify his NFL prospects as a rare 3-year starter. Standing at 6’3 and 225 pounds, the former Clemson Tiger is a physically imposing player who’s unafraid to stand in the pocket while scanning the defense. Blessed with a strong arm and the ability to throw with touch and accuracy, Cooper put together back-to-back 3,400+ passing-yard seasons while throwing a combined 50 TDs and rushing for another 12.

D’Eriq King, QB, Miami (FL):
There is not a more dynamic playmaker at quarterback this year than D’Eriq King. After splitting time at both QB and wide receiver in 2016-17, the Manvel, Texas native took the country by storm in 2018 while accounting for 50 total touchdowns and leading the NCAA in scoring prior to suffering an injury. At a shade under 5’10”, King is a non-traditional QB prospect who makes plays with his arm and legs. After taking a redshirt last year at Houston following the fourth game of the season, King will be playing in his third offensive system in as many years this fall with the Hurricanes.

Zach Smith, QB, Tulsa:
For the first time since 2016, Tulsa returns its starting signal caller from the previous year, Zach Smith. After beginning his collegiate career at Baylor, Smith earned the starting nod in training camp last year for the Golden Hurricane and took advantage of the opportunity to the tune of over 3,200 yards passing and 19 TD passes. As the season wore on, the more traditional pocket passer completed north of 70% of his throws in two of the final three games. Though not the dual-threat as some of his contemporaries, Smith is a rhythm and timing passer who does an excellent job scanning the field and working his feet in concert with his upper body.

NFLPA COLLEGIATE BOWL BIG BOARD: QUARTERBACKS

First Name	Last Name	Position	School	Height	Weight
Zac	Thomas	QB	Appalachian State	6-1	210
Feleipe	Franks	QB	Arkansas	6-5	235
Charlie	Brewer	QB	Baylor	6-1	206
Kyle	Trask	QB	Florida	6-4	239
Jamie	Newman	QB	Georgia	6-3	230
Zerrick	Cooper	QB	Jacksonville State	6-3	225
Skylar	Thompson	QB	Kansas State	6-1	212
Levi	Lewis	QB	Louisiana	6-0	185
Brady	White	QB	Memphis	6-2	215
D’Eriq	King	QB	Miami-FL	5-10	189
K.J.	Costello	QB	Mississippi State	6-4	215
Ian	Book	QB	Notre Dame	6-1	212
Kenny	Pickett	QB	Pittsburgh	6-2	225
Shane	Buechele	QB	SMU	6-1	207
Anthony	Russo	QB	Temple	6-3	235
Sam	Ehlinger	QB	Texas	6-2	235
Kellen	Mond	QB	Texas A&M	6-2	217
Zach	Smith	QB	Tulsa	6-2	228

It was quite the weekend for the 2020 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl class. Fifteen players were selected during the virtual NFL Draft and 70 players (and counting) signed as undrafted free agents with teams around the league.

Update: Quarterback Nathan Rourke was drafted in the second round (15th overall) of the Canadian Football League (CFL) Draft.

Below are highlights via social media as well as a list of drafted and signed Collegiate Bowl players that will be continually updated:

Jaylinn Hawkins — Atlanta Falcons — Round 4 — No. 134

“I’m turnt up right now. It’s a blessing.” – @jhawko6 pic.twitter.com/3O0Q3DEud1

— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) April 25, 2020

 

L’Jarius Sneed — Kansas City Chiefs — Round 4 — No. 138

Dreams money can’t buy ❤️🙏! pic.twitter.com/BLmvOCr0rg

— Sneed (@jay__sneed) April 27, 2020

 

Danny Pinter — Indianapolis Colts — Round 5 — No. 149

Big ups to the big man on the O-line @dannypinter75 for being selected by the @Colts in the #NFLDraft! 👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/TnhrvtmjYG

— The Collegiate Bowl (@NFLPABowl) April 25, 2020

 

Broderick Washington — Baltimore Ravens — Round 5 — No. 170

Congrats to @B_Washington96 on hearing his name called during the #NFLDraft! The @Ravens are getting a beast in the trenches 😤 #NFLPABowl #RavensFlock @TexasTechFB pic.twitter.com/2i9DQCQiP2

— The Collegiate Bowl (@NFLPABowl) April 25, 2020

 

Jason Huntley — Detroit Lions — Round 5 — No. 172

Welcome to Detroit, Jason Huntley!#NFLDraft | #OnePride pic.twitter.com/ecHaMeHSHi

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) April 25, 2020

 

Darnell Mooney — Chicago Bears — Round 5 — No. 173

Word on the Twitter street is WR @Darnell_M1 has a rocket strapped to his back. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

🐻⬇️ | #BearsDraft pic.twitter.com/T3dny9BUkN

— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) April 25, 2020

 

Jake Luton — Jacksonville Jaguars — Round 6 — No. 189

Congratulations to @JakeLuton6 being drafted by the @Jaguars in the #NFLDraft2020! Jake becomes the 1st ever @NFLPABowl QB drafted and he will provide great depth for the Jaguars!#Duval #GoBeavs #NFLDraft

— Dane Vandernat (@DVandernat) April 25, 2020

 

Charlie Woerner — San Francisco 49ers — Round 6 — No. 190

The NFC champion @49ers got a steal in @GeorgiaFootball TE Charlie Woerner. Congrats on making it to the next level! #NFLPABowl #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/gqVTsFJT9G

— The Collegiate Bowl (@NFLPABowl) April 25, 2020

 

Shaun Bradley — Philadelphia Eagles — Round 6 — No. 196

#FlyEaglesFly🖤 pic.twitter.com/BLe9A0lpSK

— Shaun Bradley® (Sdot) (@Sdot_Bradley5) April 26, 2020

 

Blake Brandel — Minnesota Vikings — Round 6 — No. 203

#SKOL https://t.co/BjsfVNVNLU

— Blake Brandel (@BlakeBrandel) April 25, 2020

 

Sterling Hofrichter — Atlanta Falcons — Round 7 — No. 228

💯 https://t.co/SAa0mshaej

— The Collegiate Bowl (@NFLPABowl) April 26, 2020

 

Dustin Woodard — New England Patriots — Round 7 — No. 230

Great selection by the @Patriots (and Nike the dog) in picking up tough and talented O-lineman @dustin1w, who showed his versatility at the @MemphisFB and the #NFLPABowl. Good luck!#NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/dFGvgE6faZ

— The Collegiate Bowl (@NFLPABowl) April 26, 2020

 

Chapelle Russell — Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Round 7 — No. 241

Appreciate the opportunity!!! Can’t describe the feeling!!! Much love!!! https://t.co/PihkcCD0Hn

— Chapelle “Deuce” Russell (@DeuceRussell36) April 25, 2020

 

Raymond Calais — Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Round 7 — No. 245

We 👀 you, @king_calais #GoBucs pic.twitter.com/bBerjxDq7u

— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) April 26, 2020

 

Kyle Hinton — Minnesota Vikings — Round 7 — No. 253

Rounding out the #NFLDraft for #NFLPABowl players is @BigMyke_Hinton, the durable @IchabodFTBL O-lineman who is headed to the @Vikings. Way to go, Kyle! #SKOL pic.twitter.com/QEfgQb2KwH

— The Collegiate Bowl (@NFLPABowl) April 26, 2020

 

Nathan Rourke — BC Lions — Round 2 — No. 15 (CFL Draft)

So excited to join a franchise such as BC. I was born in Victoria, have family all over BC so I was a Lion fan growing up. Dream come true! Can’t wait to get started! https://t.co/hiBLrRmo0g

— Nathan Rourke (@nathan_rourke) May 1, 2020

2020 COLLEGIATE BOWL DRAFTEES AND SIGNEES
(Names in bold were drafted)

Just a few weeks removed from one of the most competitive NFLPA Collegiate Bowls in its nine-year history, 30 of the game’s participants earned invites to the NFL Combine.

The number stands as the second-highest total in the game’s short history. In 2017, a record 34 players were invited to the Combine.

The 2020 NFL Scouting Combine will take place in Indianapolis on Feb. 23 through March 2. Here are the 30 Collegiate Bowl players who will take part:

WR Omar Bayless, Arkansas State

LB Daniel Bituli, Tennessee

LB Shaun Bradley, Temple

WR Tony Brown, Colorado

RB/KR Raymond Calais, UL-Lafayette

WR/PR Marquez Callaway, Tennessee

WR/PR Aaron Fuller, Washington

OLB, Tipa Galaei, Utah State

WR Stephen Guidry, Mississippi State

S Jaylinn Hawkins, California

RB/KR Brian Herrien, Georgia

P Sterling Hofrichter, Syracuse

QB Brian Lewerke, Michigan State

QB Jacob Luton, Oregon State

S Chris Miller, Baylor

OG John Molchon, Boise State

K John Molson, UCLA

WR Darnell Mooney, Tulane

TE Cheyenne “C.J.” O’Grady, Arkansas

FB Sewo Olonilua, TCU

RB Scottie Phillips, Mississippi

OG Danny Pinter, Ball State

DE Chauncey Rivers, Mississippi State

DT Malcolm Roach, Texas

LB Chapelle Russell, Temple

DE Qaadir Sheppard, Mississippi

CB L’Jarius Sneed, Louisiana Tech

WR Darrell Stewart, Michigan State

DT Broderick Washington, Texas Tech

TE Charles Woerner, Georgia

Two NFLPA Collegiate Bowl participants continued the game’s strong tradition of successful alumni this season in the NFL.

Shaquill Griffin, who played in the 2017 Collegiate Bowl, and Deonte Harris, who competed in the 2019 Collegiate Bowl, both earned spots on the NFC Pro Bowl team this January. What’s more, Harris earned first-team All-Pro honors as well for his dynamic play as a kick returner for the New Orleans Saints during his rookie season.

Griffin recorded 65 tackles and 13 pass deflections from the cornerback position for the Seattle Seahawks this past season. The Central Florida graduate’s strong play in his third year helped Seattle reach the divisional round of the NFC playoffs.

Despite being an undrafted free agent out of Assumption College, Harris wasted little time making his presence felt in his rookie season for the Saints. In his third career game, Harris returned a punt 53 yards for a touchdown. By season’s end, he sat atop the league rankings in punt return yards (338), fifth in kick return yards (644) and top five in both punt and kick return average per return (9.4 and 26.8, respectively).

For the eighth time in the game’s nine-year history, the National Team topped the American Team, 30-20, in the 2020 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl on January 18 at Rose Bowl Stadium.

National Team quarterback Nick Tiano (Chattanooga) earned MVP honors after completing eight of his ten passes for 135 yards and a touchdown.

2020 CB NFLPA_FinalBook.

 

Part of four straight conference titles and a 4-0 bowl record during his four-year career, including 27 straight starts at inside linebacker, Jordan Fehr finished his career at Appalachian State with 211 tackles (17.5 tackles for loss), eight sacks, seven passes defended, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries. A first-team All-Sun Belt as a junior and second-team as a senior, Fehr is known for his freakish athleticism, with his ability to bench press 415 pounds, run a 4.45 40-yard dash and vertically jump 40.5 inches – all while measuring in at 6-3, 230 pounds.

LINK: https://www.blogtalkradio.com/all-access-football/2020/01/07/nflpa-bowl-spotlight-jordan-fear-appalachian-state

 

Tell us about yourself. Where did you grow up? When did you begin playing football and when did you realize that you have a passion for the game of football?

I grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina. I began playing football at the age of six. I played almost every sport growing up but I always loved and had a strong passion for football. I realized football was for me at a young age because I loved the physicality and the team aspect of the game.

When a NFL scout pops in your game film, what type of player should they expect to see?

I am a tough, sideline-to-sideline linebacker that has a high football IQ. My goal is to do everything I can to help my team get a win. I always strive to be near the ball, hustling until the play is made. I am a quarterback of the defense, making the call and ensuring everyone has it, making checks and that all 11 players are on the same page.

What was your offseason like heading into 2019? What areas of your game did you work on to improve upon?

This past offseason was a great one. We went through a coaching staff change, which gave me the opportunity to step up as a senior leader to ensure the transition was smooth. I personally worked on my overall strength, size and speed, but specifically I worked on the use of my hands and getting off blocks. Also on my blitz technique, particularly my get off and pass rush moves to disrupt the line of scrimmage and backfield. Additionally, regarding my hips in pass coverage, I trained on being more fluid in and out of my breaks when in both man and zone coverage.

What type of leadership intangibles do you bring to the table? Explain your leadership style.

My senior year, I was voted as a team captain by my teammates and I am extremely thankful and grateful to have that honor. This happened due to my ability to lead by example. I work hard and try to be the best I can be at everything I do, on and off the field. I do my best to be a role model for others when it comes to having a strong work ethic in all aspects of being a student athlete. I also believe that when I speak, people listen. I believe I have earned the respect over the years that allow my words to carry a significant meaning, whether that’s with my peers or my teammates. I am a natural leader and do everything I can to enhance my leadership skills both on and off the field.

Name a point during your college career when you had to overcome adversity. What did you learn from that experience?

During my freshman year, I made the travel squad and started on all special teams. After three games, my coaches and trainers sat me down and told me they want to medical redshirt me, with the goal in mind of gaining another year of eligibility. They wanted me to continue to travel and gain experience, even though I couldn’t play. That spring I was informed that there was a lack of documentation to validate my redshirt, causing my redshirt year to be stripped away from me. My coaches and training staff told me that I did everything right and everything I was supposed to do; it was their fault. Of course, in the moment I was extremely upset because there was nothing I could do about it. However, after I calmed down, prayed about it, and accepted my new reality, I did everything I could do to maximize my college experience and I did just that. God’s plan is always the right plan and I am thankful for everything that happened because it all happens for a reason.

What was it like growing up in your hometown? Did you live any other places?

I was born in Wilmington, Delaware. My family and I moved around a lot when I was younger due to my parent’s work. I lived in Maryland, Pennsylvania and New York, before moving to and growing up in Charlotte, North Carolina at eight years old. I had the opportunity to receive a great education from Providence High School and compete at the highest level on the field in North Carolina. I was heavily involved with Elevation Church, volunteering as an usher and being active by giving back to community through service events. I was very grateful to grow up in a great environment.

Who has been the toughest opponent you have faced thus far in your career, either overall team or an individual? How did you fare?

Our game versus North Carolina this year on September 23 was not only a huge win for our football program, it was one of the hardest games I have ever played in. UNC had great talent across the board, but my team embraced the challenge and wanted to put Appalachian State on the map. We have come close many times, but we were finally able to finish with a big victory. Although it was the toughest game I have ever participated in, I ended with a career-high 16 tackles, making it one of my better games of my career.

What is something people might not know about you or something that separates you from other players?

What separates me from other people is that I am more than a football player. I was a semi-finalist for the Campbell Trophy award, and I graduated with a 3.8 GPA with a degree in Business Management and a minor in Advanced Entrepreneurship. Along with being the Vice President of our Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), I had the great opportunity to study abroad in Costa Rica, studying hospitality and tourism. I am an active church member of First Baptist Blowing Rock and I partake in many community service events, including Habitat for Humanity, Operation Christmas Child, Vacation Bible School and more. I invest much of my time developing myself into a Godly man and preparing for life once football ends.

If you could bring one teammate with you, who would you bring?

I would bring Josh Thomas with me. JT is a great person, teammate, and friend. Josh and I were voted as team captains this season by our peers. We would always get in extra work, either coming in early or staying late in the weight room, field, or film room. He was our strong safety to the field so we had to ensure our communication and chemistry was strong. He is a great leader and I enjoyed working with him over the years.

 

*The ninth annual NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will be held on Saturday, January 18th at the historic Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California. Be sure to tune in on NFL Network at 4 p.m. PST/7 p.m. EST! 

Growing up on a horse farm in Suffolk, Virginia, Cole Christiansen hardly envisioned playing professional football. But after racking up 275 career tackles at West Point, he is squarely on the NFL radar. Get to know the two-time Army captain who registered six games of double-digit tackles in 2019.

 

Tell us about yourself. Where did you grow up? When did you begin playing football and when did you realize that you have a passion for the game of football?

I grew up on a horse farm in Suffolk, VA and I began playing football in the third grade. My father played football and told me that I could keep playing in college and the pros, and if given the opportunity, it would be the greatest experience of my life. After a year of Pop Warner, I was hooked and knew I wanted to play at the highest level I could.

 

When a NFL scout pops in your game film, what type of player should they expect to see?

NFL scouts should expect to see a guy who plays with maximum effort every single play. Regardless of where the ball is on the field, I always strive to get my hat on the ball carrier and make a difference. I believe the play is not over until the whistle blows and a game isn’t over until the sound of the final horn and I always do everything in my power to obtain victory.

 

What was your offseason like heading into 2019? What areas of your game did you work on to improve upon?

My offseason going into this year was intense and fast-paced because of the time constraints we have here at West Point. We have military training obligations that occupy a significant portion of the offseason, so our approach to football training is aggressive. I worked specifically to improve upon my drops and my ability to cover in space moving backwards. This is not something I am asked to do that often in our defense, but it is something I looked to improve because I know how critical it is in today’s game. I also looked to improve my pass-rush techniques once I reach the second level.

 

What type of leadership intangibles do you bring to the table? Explain your leadership style.

If there is one thing West Point provides it is a superior leadership development program. I have trained to become an officer in the United States Army for four years and have commanded multiple cadet companies of 120-plus soldiers. I am also a two-year captain on the football team and have had the privilege to be a leader of leaders. My teammates are the best leaders I have ever met, so it has been a tremendous experience for me to lead them onto the field. My leadership style is continuously evolving but I will always value every individual in the organization. I strive to be approachable and likeable but am firm when necessary. It has been interesting leading in military environments with a chain of command and transitioning to a football team of direct peers. I have learned that you cannot use the same leadership techniques on everyone because everyone perceives what you say differently. It is always my goal to have gravity and inspire trust when I speak and through my actions.

 

Name a point during your college career when you had to overcome adversity. What did you learn from that experience?

I have experienced the deaths of five classmates since I have been at West Point. Several from training accidents, one suicide and a teammate of mine was killed in a car crash. I had not experienced death before I got here and it was traumatic to have so much in such a short time. I learned from their deaths however, how quickly an organization can rally or crumble. Fortunately, I saw my team and my institution come so close to each other and accomplish more than any of us thought possible. Through hardship, there is growth; and through shared hardship, there are bonds formed that last forever.

 

What was it like growing up in your hometown? Did you live any other places?

I had a great childhood and cannot thank my parents enough for their sacrifices. My sisters and I grew up on a horse farm with over 100 horses and learned to work and appreciate hard work. Living there was really the best of two worlds because we had the rural ranch life at home and the beach just 30 minutes away. I spent much of my time at Virginia Beach and Norfolk growing up on the water.

 

Who has been the toughest opponent you have faced thus far in your career, either overall team or an individual? How did you fare?

The toughest team I have faced so far was Ohio State my sophomore year. We played them well in the first half with the score 14-7, but they pulled away from us in the end. Oklahoma and Michigan were also great opponents and we took both to double overtime but couldn’t find victory in either game, unfortunately.

 

What is something people might not know about you or something that separates you from other players?

Something that separates me from other players is my experience leading large organizations and my understanding of the importance of winning. We are taught at West Point and in the Army that in war you either win, or you die. I apply that in everything I do and will always lead my troops or teammates with a fierce winning mentality. I believe I am a good player but most importantly I know how to lead and win.

 

If you could bring one teammate with you, who would you bring?

I would bring Elijah Riley my co-captain and cornerback. He is a fantastic athlete and an exemplary leader. I loved sharing the field with him and because of his drive and toughness I would gladly share a foxhole with him any day as well.

 

 

*The ninth annual NFLPA Collegiate Bowl will be held on Saturday, January 18th at the historic Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California. Be sure to tune in on NFL Network at 4 p.m. PST/7 p.m. EST!