Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Tore’ Hurst, TE, Washburn

ANTHONY S. BUSH/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Tore’ Hurst, TE, Washburn 

The 6’2, 255 pound Tore’ Hurst has become one of the best small school tight ends in the NCAA. His senior year he scored 7 touchdowns and has been one of the best most elusive tight ends in D2.  Hurst has great hands and is a extremely talented route runner.  I expect this kid to get a shot at the next level, and when he is given the opportunity watch out. He might be like Brandon Bostick in Green Bay. A small school tight end that went into a camp and never looked back.  Hurst has all the intangibles to be great at the next level as a pass catching tight end. HIGHLIGHTS

 

How many teams were recruiting you out of high school?

I was recruited by some Division I-AA and Division II schools such as Washburn, Tennessee Martin and Central Missouri.

Where did you choose and why?

I chose Washburn University because it wasn’t too far from home, but gave me that away opportunity to become a more responsible person towards my football and school, as well as myself.

At your position, what separates you from the others?

I play a hybrid tight-end wide-receiver position. What separates me from other players is the ability to read coverages and have enough speed to find that soft spot in the defense and exploit it.

Tell us what you look for when breaking down film?

When breaking down film, I look for tendencies in the defense such as coverages, and how particular players react towards various formations. Also, I think of our plays and how to run them vs their defense.

Who was the toughest player you have ever faced?

The toughest player I’ve faced was a safety from Northern Oklahoma. He definitely did his homework while facing our offense, and me playing the tight end position at Washburn he covered me a lot.

If you could compare your play to one person in the NFL who would it be?

I would compare my play to an Anquan Boldin. Not extraordinary speed, but quick feet, movements and deceptive abilities to get away from even the fastest of cornerbacks and safeties along with solid, strong hands.

What was the biggest obstacle in your life you had to overcome, and how did you overcome it?

My biggest obstacle was accepting my teammate and roommate passing away my sophomore year of college. Being around my other teammates even more help me cope with what happen, and I believe it was because they were cooping with the same situation.

What system fits your style of play the best?

A physical, relentless, upbeat system best fits my style of play.

What is your biggest strength?

Route running

What is your biggest weakness?

Sustaining dominant blocks on defensive end and linebackers

If I were a GM and gave you a second to sell yourself, what would you say?

I’m a hard working, dedicated football player who is wanting and willing to give ALL I’ve got for an opportunity to better the team, the guys around me, and myself.

Growing up, who was your role model?

My mom was my role model. I looked up to her for how responsible she was with me and my sister, and how well her and my dad value themselves and their kids to make the best life for us all.

Who was your favorite team and player in the NFL and why?

My favorite NFL team was the St.Louis Rams being from St. Louis. My favorite player of course was on the team, Isaac Bruce. I thought he was the smoothest  and fastest wide receiver I have ever seen, and it seemed like he caught every ball that was thrown his way.

What was the most tragic event that ever happened in your life and how did you overcome it?

My obstacle and tragic event share the same situation which would be my roommate passing away in 2011. Staying together and dedicating everything to football helped me overcome his death, although he still lives through me.

If you were to have dinner with three people dead or alive who would it be?

Kobe Bryant, Jerry Rice, and Barack Obama

With your first paycheck what would you buy?

I would help my family out with whatever they needed. As much time they has sacrificed  for me it’s the least I could do.