Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Brenden Daley, LB, Hawaii

NFL Draft Diamonds Spotlight Interview: Brenden Daley, LB, Hawaii


How many teams were recruiting you out of high school?

Out of high school I was heavily recruited by UCLA, Utah, Fresno State. I took an official visit to the University of Oregon.

How did you come to make your college decision?

After receiving my AA from Ventura Junior College, I met with Defensive Line Coach Tony Tuitoi. After learning about the deep football tradition at UH and the Hawaii College culture I decided to leave behind my family and friends and dedicate myself to UH.

Where are you training, and what are your goals for pro day/combines?
After graduating, I decided to stay in the islands and take my training to the next level. I am training at the number one ranked facility here on Oahu, Hawaii. Tactical Strength and Conditioning is hosted by Darin Yap, Geoff Garvin, Barry Toyama – who were instrumental in catapulting a number of players into the league: Tyson Alualu (Jaguars), Keoloha Pilares (Panthers), Greg Salas (Jets ), David Veikune (Browns) among others.

Have any scouts met with you, and if so what are they saying?

Scouts came to see me at the USC, UNLV and Navy Games. I have not met with any scouts as my Coach has been handling the scouts and teams such as: Green Bay Packers, Dallas Cowboys, and New York Giants.

At your position, what separates you from the others?
I understand that I need to fight as hard as I possibly can for the man next to me because that person is relying on me and I on them. In being aware of that merely tackling isn’t enough, I want to attack the ball and get the ball back for my team . So we as a defense can get back to the sidelines and drink Gatorade as long as possible and watch the offense dominate.

Tell us what you look for when breaking down film?
Day one of watching film is looking at personnel groups and seeing what the tendencies are out of those groups. Then as the week of preparation continues I get in more depth by understanding down and distance and what personnel groups the opposing offense prefers. Knowledge of down and distance and what personnel the offense prefers is crucial in anticipate what plays could happen.

Who was the toughest player you have ever faced?
Derek Carr. He is a fierce competitor and I enjoyed going up against a player who was so intelligent in his play-calling. A high caliber player like him really brought the best out of me.
If you could compare your play to one person in the NFL who would it be?
The great Brian Urlacher.

 

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

Not being able to sign out of high school. I didn’t have the proper GPA. To set things straight, I attended Ventura Junior College for two years. Then I completed 25 units in the last semester to meet the requirements for a scholarship to the University of Hawaii. Improving my GPA allowed me to play Division 1 football.

What system fits your style of play the best?
Rob Ryan’s attacking and multiple formation defense. He has a amazing way of bewildering an opposing offense. I enjoy how he mixes up 3-4,3-3-5, 2-4-5 for the New Orleans Saints. My skill set would be most adaptable to his schemes.

What is your biggest strength?

My biggest strength is not buckling under pressure. I thrive on pressure. Adversity brings out my best. My team knows they can rely on me to get the job done. During Fresno state – stopping the ball was not enough. I had to get the sack. I sacked the QB, forced the offense into a fourth down punt and gave our team an opportunity to win the game.

What is your biggest weakness?

I’m a workaholic and accused of being a little too competitive – I have to force myself to schedule “down time.”

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

You can depend upon me -I make plays. I can read a play and play the game from outside myself. I can master both the physical and mental games of football. Most of all, my soul is in it. Mind, Body and Soul – I’m the full package. I’m singular in my purpose – this is my only focus. You can count on me to deliver. I’m not a finished product – I’m always getting better, faster, stronger. Unlike other players whose BEST plays and days are behind them – My best days are ahead of me. I have what it takes to be a Super Bowl champion. I will work my hardest to bring this organization to numerous Super Bowl Championships. I will lead the defense to be number one in the NFL.I am a guy that lives for that opportunity and will settle for nothing less.

Growing up, who was your role model?
I admire the relentless passion of Ray Lewis. Football was much more than a job for him. He embodied hope, faith , and passion- the most beautiful things about the NFL.

Who was your favorite team and player in the NFL and why?
I loved watching the Dallas Cowboys because at 9 years old I remember going to their summer camp in Oxnard, California which was two towns over from my home town Of Moorpark California.

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

Jesus Christ, Mohammed Ali, Winston Churchill

What would you buy with your first NFL paycheck?

I would like to be able to support financially, in addition to volunteering, the Wounded Warrior Program and Access Surf. My time spent with them really taught me how to appreciate my health. I would like to buy stock in Jiffy Peanut butter and a dairy farm – so I could get some of my money back.

I will pay off my credit cards and buy a house that can fit a family with five kids. I plan to have an army of Daley kids!