2020 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: R.J. Proctor, OT/OG, University of Oklahoma
Student-Athlete Profile:
- R.J. Proctor
- University of Oklahoma
- OT/OG
- 6’4”
- 328 LBS.
- Hometown: Bealeton, VA
- Twitter: @thenamesPROCTOR
- Instagram: @proctor_73_
2019 Statistics:
- GP: 12
- GS: 6
Heading into the 2020 NFL Draft, what are you working on to perfect your craft?
What I’m really working on during the offseason is pass protection at tackle. I think I’m pretty solid in run blocking. Working on the little things that can help against speed rushers. I’ve been training with Lane Johnson, Clint Anderson and have been trying to get the most out of the process. During the season it was a spur of the moment thing moving outside to tackle. I’ve been playing guard and they threw me in at tackle. It was good to get out of my comfort zone.
What did you take away most from the coaching staff during your time at both UVA and OU?
At UVA the mindset was football won’t last forever, get your degree. Coming to OU, it was more focused on football. I’m taking graduate classes with not as much workload so that allowed me to really put the focus on football.
What are the major differences in the coaching style you learned from Coach Bedenbaugh and Coach Tujague?
Throughout my career, I’ve actually had five different o-line coaches. Every single one had a different mindset. Coach B is very very good at what he does. Every year he sends o-linemen to the NFL. The little things matter. You could have the perfect block, but he’ll critique you to continue to get better. Never be complacent. Coach B took my skills to a different level, especially at tackle.
When football is over, what do you aspire to do in the professional world?
I’d like to be a strength and conditioning or position coach. I understand the time that it takes to put in. Then I’d like to transition to be an academic advisor and open a gym in my hometown.
During the last two seasons, you’ve protected the blind-side for two of college football’s most dynamic QBs: Bryce Perkins at UVA and Jalen Hurts at OU.
Jalen really reminds me of Bryce. They are very similar. I would say Bryce is one of my best friends. He should definitely go early in the Draft. He can make a play out of nothing. Jalen is a great athlete, he can do what anyone does.
What separates you from other players at the tackle position?
I’m the most versatile prospect in this class. I played all the positions on the o-line. I don’t think anyone can do that in this class at a high level. Being able to see the field. The way I understand the scheme. If I know what the d-lineman is going to do, that’s 90% of the battle. I’ve really been studying on the EDGE defenders after playing on the inside.
Who is the toughest player you’ve competed against during your collegiate career?
K’Lavon Chaisson from LSU. I could tell he was a good player. He adjusted to my adjustments during the game. He is just a really good player.
If your life was a book, what would the title be?
“Perseverance.” I’ve been down all throughout my career. I’ve always been a sleeper. I didn’t have many offers coming out of high school. I traveled halfway across the country not knowing what would happen. I worked my butt to earn playing time.
Is there a current or former NFL player you emulate your game after?
Joe Thomas, Orlando Brown, Trent Williams. Trent is nasty, but he can move. Those guys have game speed. I’m built big too but I feel like I’m fast for my size. As an o-lineman, you have to be nasty and bring that edge to your game.
What is an NFL team getting when they invest in R.J. Proctor?
You’re getting versatility durability heart, I never quit. Someone that is humbled, always open to learning new things, try new positions, hard-worker, and someone who is passionate.
