2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Nick Torres, OL, Villanova

• Name: Nick Torres
• Height: 6’6”
• Weight: 330 lbs.
• Position: OL
• College: Villanova University
• Twitter: Nick_Torres79
• Instagram: Nick_Torres79

Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
I recently graduated with a degree in Communications with a specialization in Media Studies. I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Administration. One of the activities that I’ve helped out with is the Andy Talley Bone Marrow Foundation.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?
As one of the older players on the team, most of my teammates look up to me as a leader. I set an example as a servant leader, being someone that freshmen want to model after.

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
I’m one of the most experienced players on our team. I exemplify leadership on the field, in the weight room and the classroom. I have started 4 years, mostly at RT with a few starts at guard. Having practiced at center, I feel confident that I can play any position on the line.

We feel like we have one of the best offensive lines in the country. We have an explosive offense full of tone setters. We come out hot and punch people in the mouth, striking fear into our opponents. Many of us have an aggressive style of play. I am most effective in a pin-and-pull type scheme.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
As a sophomore with only a few starts, I played against John Daka at JMU who was an All-American and maybe one of the best pass rushers that I have ever faced.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
I’ve been fortunate to have exceptional leaders set the standard for our program. Beginning in 2018, Ethan Greenidge was someone that I always looked up to. He was a very spiritual man, but when he stepped on to the football field, he was a ruthless animal. Over the past couple seasons, Forrest Rhyne and Justin Covington were the definition of hard work and leadership. I would follow those two anywhere. Forrest was so dedicated to his craft and put in many hours of film study. He showed tons of heart. Justin was not only a leader of our football team, but also an ambassador of Villanova Athletics. He had a very contagious level of leadership that was unmatched. Colin Gamroth is probably the smartest player on our team at center. Coming in as a walk-on, he has put in tremendous effort to know not only our offense, but where everyone needs to be on the field. He is a great communicator who helps us adjust well during games.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
One of the hardest times in my life happened during my junior year of high school when my father was arrested. Being that it was my junior year which is important to recruiting, it was tough not having my dad around. My mom put in several hours, often working 6 days a week. I had to grow up fast.

It was tough in that situation not knowing what was next and whether I was going to play football in college. I wasn’t getting many college offers at the time, and my grades weren’t up to par. So, there was a lot of research that I had to do on my own. We had trouble at first trying to find the right prep school that I could attend. I even thought about attending a junior college. I landed at the Salisbury School in Connecticut. My head coach, Chris Phelps, had good connections and helped me get in contact with Villanova coaches. Building that relationship helped secure a scholarship moving forward.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
Maybe basketball. I never played although I certainly have the height to contend with. Maybe even MMA. I’ve taken Muay Thai and thrive in physical competition.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I’m most proud that I’m a first-generation person in my family to attend and graduate from college. I never thought that I would be attending graduate school and get my Master’s.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
In 2021, we had a great game against JMU. They were highly favored at their stadium and ranked #3 in the country. There was a lot of back and forth in that game with several great plays. Although, I will always remember the final drive. We had the lead and just needed a first down to secure the win. So, 4th quarter, 4th and short, we’re all screaming to run the ball and finish it out. Justin Covington gets the ball to where we need to be, and we take 2 kneel downs to finish the game. It was a wild memory that I’ll never forget.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
I’m a Jets fan from Queens, NY. Players like Taylor Lewan and Trent Williams are guys that I like to watch. They are very ruthless and nasty players who get into their opponent’s heads, beating them physically and mentally. I think I’ve learned the most by watching Joe Thomas and how he dissects plays. His football IQ is unreal.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
Morgan Wallen is an artist that I find very relatable. Before games, I like to listen to EDM music, maybe something from Steve Aoki.

What is your favorite comfort food?
Sushi and Hibachi are definitely my favorites to eat. I like going to Vic’s Sushi in Bryn Mawr, PA.

Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
Peaky Blinders and The Sopranos are two of my favorite TV shows. The first Ironman movie is one of my favorites.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
In my spare time, I like to play Xbox. I’m also a big movie buff and enjoy the filmmaking process.

Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
I play football because I love it. My parents really motivate me. I want them to have a better future and be proud of me with how far I’ve come. I believe in second chances and that my dad lives the best that he can as well.