Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Shaquil Barrett, LB, Colorado State

Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Shaquil Barrett, LB, Colorado State 

How many teams were recruiting you out of high school?

I had a lot of D2 offers but the two offers that I considered the most were university of Nebraska Omaha and North Dakota. 

Where did you choose and why?

University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) because I was already comfortable with the location and knew people at the school or who were going. 

What were your goals for your senior year?

I only came in with two personal goals. At least 10 sacks and to have my numbers better than the previous year. 

At your position, what separates you from the others?

My mindset of not letting the other person beat me. I believe that I’m tougher than my opponent so there is no reason to believe I shouldn’t dominate. 

Tell us what you look for when breaking down film?

Offensive line tendencies to start. Whether they are in 2 point or 3 point stand and whether that relates to run pas keys. Whether the running back tells you where he is going with eyes or anything. And does the quarterback usually throw to his first target. Along with a whole lot of other stuff. 

http://youtu.be/gcGMgbc_DRU

Who was the toughest player you have ever faced?

Tough in regards to smart and best I’ll go with David Fales he threw career games every year against us. And tough meaning mean, nobody really sticks out to me.

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

I think I’m similar to A Shawne Merriman in his prime. 

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

I would say the relocating after the University of Nebraska Omaha dropped their football program. I had a lot of support and peopl believing that this could be a blessing in disguise. People told me that it could be a blessing and it was, I started receiving offers and phone calls and it all went good from there. 

What system fits your style of play the best?

I played a different position every year of my college career. I never really was able to settle at one. I had the most success as a 4/3 Mike and 3/4 Mike and buck. 

What is your biggest strength?

Run defense. 

What is your biggest weakness?

Explosiveness

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

I would tell him the way my mindset is as mentioned above. The role I could play on a team, and how productive I could be in the scheme. 

Growing up, who was your role model?

Brian Urlacher and Ray Lewis

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

Ravens they were my home town team. Michael Vick was my favorite player because of how fast he was at quarterback and his playmaking ability. 

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

I’ve had my share of tragic events but none that really shook me up. 

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

Jesus Christ

Martin Luther king Jr

Bill Gates

With your first paycheck what would you buy?

Pay off my car or get my family a home somewhere.