2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Timothy Coleman, OL, Richmond

• Name: Timothy Coleman
• Height: 6’3”
• Weight: 315 lbs
• Position: OL
• College: University of Richmond
• Twitter: @TLCII73

What is your major/minor? During your collegiate experience, have you participated in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?

I am currently pursuing my degree in Marketing at the University of Richmond. No, I have not participated in any other activities.

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team?

I see myself as a veteran that younger players look up to for advice. My mom always told me to leave a place better than you left it. I want to help as much as I can while improving my game. Also, you never know who you can learn from.

What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?

I currently play offensive tackle right now but I actually came to play center. I always thought I would play well in a zone scheme at center. This would allow me to use my athleticism and ability to get to second level.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?

Personally, the defensive player of the year for the CAA, Rondell Carter. I thought he had a good mix of speed and strength that made him one of the top players in FCS. I think I had pretty good performance versus him through preparation. I recognize he struggled with people jump setting him so I tried to get on him as quickly as possible. He still got me once or twice, he is a good player.

Throughout your career, which one of your teammates has impressed you the most?

I would say John Yarbrough. He was a hard worker. He took me under his wing and helped me understand the importance of getting stronger and also how to prepare for a game through watching film. I always watched film but just the smaller details such as when a defensive end puts an inside hand down vs an outside hand.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.

Death and football was a struggle I am still dealing with today. Losing my great grandmother, my teammate and my cousin was a lot to think about while trying to play football and focus on school. Through God and prayer, I was able to push though and reset my focus.

NFL Draft Diamonds 2021 Small School Rankings

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?

If I didn’t play football, I would play basketball. I used to always try to take the final shot and usually knocked them down. More importantly, I love playing defense. Locking up someone who thinks they can score on me is satisfying. Finally, the assist because an assist makes two people happy.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?

I would say receiving the Freshman All-American is something I am really proud of. Going into camp, I was fighting to make the travel time. Instead of folding and expecting I was not going to make it, I persevered and found a way to contribute to the team by working my butt off. My opportunity presented itself, and I took advantage of it performing well enough to receive the Freshman All American nod. That really taught me that “work without faith is dead and faith without work is dead.” As in you can grind all you want but if you don’t believe in yourself what are you grinding for? Also, if you believe you can start but do not put in the work to start. What are you really doing?

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.

The Villanova game play number #10 was fun. I was able to run into the open field, get to the safety and finish. I committed to the jump rope and was happy to show my speed.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?

A player I model myself after is Kelvin Beachum because he is an undersized tackle who has been pretty successful in the league. Even though I most likely will not play tackle in the league, as a smaller tackle, it’s a great film to watch.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
Easily, DMX is my pregame artist. Before the game, hearing him bark just tells me it’s time to turn into a dog.

What is your favorite comfort food?

Cookies are my favorite comfort food. A nice warm oatmeal cookie gets me relaxed and ready to perform my best.

Do you have a favorite movie or actor?

My favorite actor is Wood Harris. From Paid in Full to Remember the Titans, Wood Harris has quietly put together an outstanding career that I don’t think gets talked about enough.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?

I watch NFL films. If you want to be the best, you have to watch the best. So when I want to learn how to improve on certain sets I watch Taylor Lewan.

Who or what motivates you the most?

My mom motivates me the most. When she lost her job, she always stayed positive and found a way to provide for the family. Also, my dad motivates me. He taught me since I was a kid about the importance of watching film. He tells me everyday to be able to do the things I want to do, I have to do the things I need to do. I work my butt off, and I’m motivated to provide for my family and make sure my parents can retire.