- Joined
- Aug 16, 2014
- Messages
- 1,278
Yes, I agree. He faced good competition in the ACC along with running a 4.40 / 40 yds
Rams announce signing of 22 UDFA's as of 5/15/19
- Thread starter Faceplant
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Yes, I agree. He faced good competition in the ACC along with running a 4.40 / 40 yds
ReekofRams
Hall of Fame
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- Name
- Reek
fearsomefour
Legend
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- Messages
- 17,101
No way of knowing.
He looked just ok last preseason. Left for the Lions, cut by the Lions and brought back.
I think the back up line spots are always very interesting.
You could be right and Demby may turn into a heck of a player. But he hasn't shown much so far.
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- Apr 15, 2017
- Messages
- 1,238
- Name
- LA Rams 29
I believe Travin Howard and Traven Young will get looks at Linebacker for us as well
- Joined
- Jun 18, 2014
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- 4,925
Hopefully. We don't have enough info, though. He was cut at the end of training camp, destined for the practice squad maybe - but he signed with Detroit for their practice squad. Late in the season, when there was an opening, he was signed to sit on the bench as insurance for the Rams - no playing time. I don't remember him even being active.
He might get time on the active roster this season, saying he'd be a great backup when he has yet to be active on game day is optimistic. Hopefully he's one of those guys who just needs a season with a NFL weight room and strength and conditioning coach. But if the Rams expected him to be a great backup at least, I'm dubious they would have exposed him to waivers.
Memento
Your (Somewhat) Friendly Neighborhood Authoress.
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- Jul 30, 2010
- Messages
- 17,081
- Name
- Jemma
Fair enough. All of you make excellent points. I'm just very high on Demby (given that I predicted that we would pick him in a couple of mocks).
fearsomefour
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ReekofRams
Hall of Fame
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- Name
- Reek
Boston Ram
Hall of Fame
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- Messages
- 3,561
Funny you mentioned this kid. I havent been on much but did want to come on to talk about Bachman.
As a BC fan and alum, I watch a lot of ACC football. Got to see this kid play a lot. First off, I am surprised he was not drafted. That being said, I think this kids is a perfect fit for McVays offense.
Why is a perfect fit? He is quick is small space as well as being fast. He runs terrific routes which to me is essential in a McVay offense. He has great hands and really good after the catch. When you think of the Rams receivers, to me Woods and Kupp are our top 2.....just my opinion. What makes them so good is their ability to run good routes. McVays offense is derived on that very skill. What also stands out is reports that this kid is a bit of film freak which I think will translate.
If given the opportunity, I am excited to see what this kid can do in this offense. I feel like when Kupp went down we didnt have a viable replacement. Im not a huge Reynolds fan, but having a guy like Bachman who I believe could fill in for say a Woods or Kupp if they got hurt. Clearly he is not going to start but I think he could be a good depth guy that more importantly should contribute if we had any injuries at the WR position.
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- Jun 18, 2014
- Messages
- 14,218
The Rams are going to continue to scout players.Mcvay likes to have info in the case of need, or a player that gets released.
I think Allen is an example of a QB he liked when he was with Washington. Then when he was cut, he picked him up.
It’s past relationships, like the combine. There are players they might not be able to draft , but want to know a certain player to know if it is a fit down the road.
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- May 8, 2014
- Messages
- 37,359
Ants
Starter
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- Feb 8, 2016
- Messages
- 572
He looks a little slow off the snap. Still, he does seem to play hard and has some agility.
- Joined
- May 8, 2014
- Messages
- 37,359
Kendall Blanton cutup:
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TyAIDRqP1Fk
Article:
https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019...-prospect-interview-kendall-blanton-missouri/
Meet Kendall Blanton, Missouri's complete TE prospect
Winning the NFL draft is all about maximizing value and finding key contributors outside the first few rounds. If your favorite NFL team is looking for a steal at tight end, Missouri’s Kendall Blanton might just be their guy.
A versatile prospect with a well-rounded skill set, Blanton recently spoke exclusively with Draft Wire about his career at Missouri, which NFL tight ends he models his game after, and what he brings to the next level as a prospect.
ZH: Before we get into the football questions, just how was your overall experience at Missouri?
KB: I loved it. Wouldn’t have traded it for the world. I met a lot of lifelong friends, some guys that I don’t know where I’d be if I never met them, and the overall experience I loved it and it was just great.
ZH: What was it like playing with a QB like Drew Lock the last few seasons?
KB: I actually just got done running some routes with him, and me and Damarea Crockett were just kind of saying the same thing, there’s not a lot of quarterbacks that are equal to who he is and just how easily and effortless it is for him to just throw the ball. Kind of gotta be ready for it every time he throws it. Not too long ago, he was throwing and I was like, “Man, let me get my mind right.” It was a great experience though, man. He was a great quarterback and I wouldn’t have asked for anybody else.
Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
ZH: After your final season at Missouri in 2018, you were invited to play in the Shrine Game. How was that experience for you?
KB: Another blessing. Another great opportunity. I really took pride in just having an opportunity to huddle up (laughs). We didn’t huddle up a lot at Mizzou. I mean, I was fortunate enough this last season to run a pro-style offense, so being able to huddle up in the Shrine practices and in the Shrine Game, that was something new, and getting our plays from the QB instead from the sidelines was all new. I took pride in playing in all the special teams, as well, so that was just a good experience getting that under my belt, as well.
ZH: I read that you have a bit of a basketball background. How does that translate to playing tight end?
KB: Just knowing how to use your body. In basketball, you gotta be good at knowing how to use your body in small spaces when boxing out opponents or things like going up and getting a rebound. I actually took pride on the defensive end. I think I had the shot-block record in Missouri (high school state record), and I know I have the shot-block record at my school, so I took pride in the defensive end, just knowing how to go up and read shots and go up and block them.
Translating that to football, going up and getting the ball in the air and using your body in tight windows or to shed off a defender. I think it just helped me out footwork wise. I think stuff like that just translated over.
ZH: You only caught 44 passes in your career. Was that because you are more of a blocking tight end, or just how the offense was run at Mizzou?
KB: We got a lot of good tight ends that come through here. I’m more of a traditional Y tight end. I feel like I can do both, block and catch, but we had a lot of good tight ends coming in. I think it was the best tight end group in the last six years or so at any college program, Albert Okwuegbunam was basically our receiving tight end, as we would spread him out and do things with that. It was just what the team needed from me though, a guy who could block and wasn’t afraid to stick his nose in with the big guys we were facing in the SEC and go toe-to-toe with them. I’d do that everyday, and I was fortunate enough to play in the SEC, as a lot of those guys you are going to see on Sundays, so I got to block them. That’s just what they wanted me to do, though, and I’m not going to argue with the coaches.
Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
ZH: For people unfamiliar with your game, what is your biggest strength going to the NFL?
KB: I can do both, I can block and I can catch. I’m a complete tight end, and I’m not afraid to put my hand in the dirt, and I’m not afraid to stand up and go toe-to-toe with anyone across from me. From my basketball background, I know how to use my body and go up and get a ball, just like I did in basketball.
ZH: Which NFL players do you compare your game to the most?
KB: I’m really just me. I watch a lot of NFL guys, and if you want to be good, you have to watch the guys before you, and you got to take pieces of their game that you like and make it your own. I’ve watched a lot of guys like Rob Gronkowski, Marcedes Lewis, Martellus Bennett, Jason Witten. Tony Gonzalez is my favorite tight end by far, though. The GOAT in my opinion; the greatest tight end to ever play. So, I watch a lot of those guys. Guys that like to put their hand in the ground and have the capability to be spread out wide and be used in the passing game. I kind of watch all of those guys and take bits and pieces and implement it into my game.
ZH: What is my team getting if I draft Kendall Blanton?
KB: A guy that is going to work harder than anybody. I’m gonna come in and be a sponge from whoever. I want to learn how to be a pro, that is my first goal like how to watch film, how to study a playbook, how to practice. Then, after I’ve accomplished all of that, I’m gonna take somebody’s spot and try to help the team to the best of my ability to win a championship. That is the ultimate goal, win a championship and be the best player I can be. Everybody has their own goals, I have my own, but I want to help the team win, and that is the biggest goal.
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TyAIDRqP1Fk
Article:
https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019...-prospect-interview-kendall-blanton-missouri/
Meet Kendall Blanton, Missouri's complete TE prospect
Winning the NFL draft is all about maximizing value and finding key contributors outside the first few rounds. If your favorite NFL team is looking for a steal at tight end, Missouri’s Kendall Blanton might just be their guy.
A versatile prospect with a well-rounded skill set, Blanton recently spoke exclusively with Draft Wire about his career at Missouri, which NFL tight ends he models his game after, and what he brings to the next level as a prospect.
ZH: Before we get into the football questions, just how was your overall experience at Missouri?
KB: I loved it. Wouldn’t have traded it for the world. I met a lot of lifelong friends, some guys that I don’t know where I’d be if I never met them, and the overall experience I loved it and it was just great.
ZH: What was it like playing with a QB like Drew Lock the last few seasons?
KB: I actually just got done running some routes with him, and me and Damarea Crockett were just kind of saying the same thing, there’s not a lot of quarterbacks that are equal to who he is and just how easily and effortless it is for him to just throw the ball. Kind of gotta be ready for it every time he throws it. Not too long ago, he was throwing and I was like, “Man, let me get my mind right.” It was a great experience though, man. He was a great quarterback and I wouldn’t have asked for anybody else.
Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
ZH: After your final season at Missouri in 2018, you were invited to play in the Shrine Game. How was that experience for you?
KB: Another blessing. Another great opportunity. I really took pride in just having an opportunity to huddle up (laughs). We didn’t huddle up a lot at Mizzou. I mean, I was fortunate enough this last season to run a pro-style offense, so being able to huddle up in the Shrine practices and in the Shrine Game, that was something new, and getting our plays from the QB instead from the sidelines was all new. I took pride in playing in all the special teams, as well, so that was just a good experience getting that under my belt, as well.
ZH: I read that you have a bit of a basketball background. How does that translate to playing tight end?
KB: Just knowing how to use your body. In basketball, you gotta be good at knowing how to use your body in small spaces when boxing out opponents or things like going up and getting a rebound. I actually took pride on the defensive end. I think I had the shot-block record in Missouri (high school state record), and I know I have the shot-block record at my school, so I took pride in the defensive end, just knowing how to go up and read shots and go up and block them.
Translating that to football, going up and getting the ball in the air and using your body in tight windows or to shed off a defender. I think it just helped me out footwork wise. I think stuff like that just translated over.
ZH: You only caught 44 passes in your career. Was that because you are more of a blocking tight end, or just how the offense was run at Mizzou?
KB: We got a lot of good tight ends that come through here. I’m more of a traditional Y tight end. I feel like I can do both, block and catch, but we had a lot of good tight ends coming in. I think it was the best tight end group in the last six years or so at any college program, Albert Okwuegbunam was basically our receiving tight end, as we would spread him out and do things with that. It was just what the team needed from me though, a guy who could block and wasn’t afraid to stick his nose in with the big guys we were facing in the SEC and go toe-to-toe with them. I’d do that everyday, and I was fortunate enough to play in the SEC, as a lot of those guys you are going to see on Sundays, so I got to block them. That’s just what they wanted me to do, though, and I’m not going to argue with the coaches.
Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
ZH: For people unfamiliar with your game, what is your biggest strength going to the NFL?
KB: I can do both, I can block and I can catch. I’m a complete tight end, and I’m not afraid to put my hand in the dirt, and I’m not afraid to stand up and go toe-to-toe with anyone across from me. From my basketball background, I know how to use my body and go up and get a ball, just like I did in basketball.
ZH: Which NFL players do you compare your game to the most?
KB: I’m really just me. I watch a lot of NFL guys, and if you want to be good, you have to watch the guys before you, and you got to take pieces of their game that you like and make it your own. I’ve watched a lot of guys like Rob Gronkowski, Marcedes Lewis, Martellus Bennett, Jason Witten. Tony Gonzalez is my favorite tight end by far, though. The GOAT in my opinion; the greatest tight end to ever play. So, I watch a lot of those guys. Guys that like to put their hand in the ground and have the capability to be spread out wide and be used in the passing game. I kind of watch all of those guys and take bits and pieces and implement it into my game.
ZH: What is my team getting if I draft Kendall Blanton?
KB: A guy that is going to work harder than anybody. I’m gonna come in and be a sponge from whoever. I want to learn how to be a pro, that is my first goal like how to watch film, how to study a playbook, how to practice. Then, after I’ve accomplished all of that, I’m gonna take somebody’s spot and try to help the team to the best of my ability to win a championship. That is the ultimate goal, win a championship and be the best player I can be. Everybody has their own goals, I have my own, but I want to help the team win, and that is the biggest goal.
- Joined
- May 8, 2014
- Messages
- 37,359
Romello Brooker article:
https://www.nfldraftdiamonds.com/2019/03/romello-brooker/
PROSPECT INTERVIEWS
NFL Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Romello Brooker, TE, University of Houston
by
Jonathan Joyce
Romello Brooker the tight end from Houston recently took time out of his busy schedule to sit down with Jonathan Joyce of Draft Diamond
Player Profile:
Beast – Rob Bailey & The Hustle Standard (feat. Busta Rhymes).
How would your teammates describe you as both a player and person?
As a person, I am genuine, humble man who values my faith, my loving family and my work ethic. I am a guy who is going to work hard regardless of the circumstance or situation.
As a player, they would describe my relentless work ethic and my desire to do everything I can to help our team prepare and play at the highest level. I put the team above all else.
How do you and your teammates make practice and film study fun?
We compete daily on the practice field and in the weight room to better ourselves, and we keep tallies on how many plays were made by each of us each day. We watch film together and pump each other up when we make plays.
When you are studying film, what is your main focus to gain a competitive advantage?
Watching the tendencies and alignments of my opponent according to the offensive personnel that are in the game. I focus on the players I will be matched against and watch what he is good at (whether it be good hands or if he comes head first every time (I call that a “head case”)). I also watch how the linebacker or D-End plays the run. When I watch this I look at whether he is a downhill linebacker or a smart, finesse linebacker that likes to avoid contact. This determines my approach on second level blocking. For D-Ends, I look at his style of play—is he a bull rusher or have multiple techniques—and I study what his “go to” moves are. When I study coverages, I watch how aggressive or passive the linebackers are. This determines my approach on either running by the backer or defeating hands then running by if he likes to collision on the route.
While at the Collegiate level, who has been the toughest player you have competed against?
That is a tough question because we have played against so many talented defenders. I would say Dakota Allen was the toughest this past year because he is a very smart player and smart players are the hardest players to go against and win the one on one battles.
For what in your life do you feel most grateful?
First off I am most grateful for my life itself. God doesn’t have to give us the days we live nor the air we breathe. Everyday I have on earth to enjoy my blessings and better myself—I am so grateful for that. Without life and air to breathe, I can’t take care of my fiancé and my child, without life my mom has no son to love.
If you could wake up tomorrow having gained one quality or ability, what would it be?
I would wake up tomorrow and do the right things that make others respect me more than they did the day before. That’s what I am working for right now—to earn the respect I deserve from my hard work.
What do you value most from your Collegiate experience?
Meeting my lovely fiancé, Selena. She means the world to me and my priority is to take care of her and my family.
Who is your personal hero?
My mother, Lionese Whittaker.
Tell me something about yourself nobody would know.
I am a movie head, I love to draw, and I love gospel music.
How do you work on yourself?
I get closer and closer to God every chance I get because through Him all is possible. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would have dinner with my fiancé, Selena, at her favorite restaurant. She fills my heart each day and every experience we have together is always different and interesting.
If you could have any superpower, what power would it be and why?
I would want teleportation powers. This way I could be anywhere I wanted and get there faster than the speed of light.
What would constitute a perfect day for you?
A day that I’ve been very productive, worked hard and given 100% of my time and energy toward my goals. I would also want to have made my family members smile at least once.
Who inspired you as a young athlete?
My step father, Reggie. He never pushed me too much, but he has instilled in me the competitor and beast I am today. He taught me to be the best at everything I do.
What are the positive attributes that you bring to a professional football team?
I understand what it takes to be a professional thanks to my parents. I aspire to be a great team leader and use my relentless work ethic to be productive and motivate others. I put the team first and I’m willing to do all in my power to help the team win. I am a high-character guy who has a strong and healthy relationship with my family and my faith—the team would never have to worry about my conduct off the field.
Tell me about a time where you overcame a challenge.
Losing my grandfather at a young age. He was my guy and I was his everything. Growing up, hitting milestones and accomplishments without him being there to see any of it has put a toll on me. It is something I have had to deal with, but I realize my grandfather is still watching me from above. I truly miss and love him.
What one skill would you like to improve on? What’s your plan for doing so?
I’d like to be better at making moves in the open field and breaking open field tackles. I plan to practice more “move making” decision drills.
If you could catch a TD from any NFL QB, past or present, who would It be and why?
Joe Montana, a true life legend. He is one of the best quarterbacks of all time.
What current/former NFL player do you model your playing style after?
Jordan Reed. Like Jordan, I focus on running the best routes, great hands (natural pass catcher), my lengthy stride helps me get behind the defense. We also have similar size and desire to block well.
What is the best part of your hometown; Houston, TX?
The Houston Skyline. We have a beautiful downtown.
In 15 words or less, give me your pitch to an NFL GM on why you should be a part of their organization.
I will play anything to help the team win. While still producing making others better.
https://www.nfldraftdiamonds.com/2019/03/romello-brooker/
PROSPECT INTERVIEWS
NFL Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Romello Brooker, TE, University of Houston
by
Jonathan Joyce
Romello Brooker the tight end from Houston recently took time out of his busy schedule to sit down with Jonathan Joyce of Draft Diamond
Player Profile:
- Romello Brooker
- University of Houston
- TE
- 6’5”
- 253lbs.
- Houston, TX
- Twitter: @BrookerRomello
- Instagram: highly_favored_brooker
- GP: 13
- Receptions: 33
- Receiving Yards: 409
- YPR: 12.39
- TD: 7
Beast – Rob Bailey & The Hustle Standard (feat. Busta Rhymes).
How would your teammates describe you as both a player and person?
As a person, I am genuine, humble man who values my faith, my loving family and my work ethic. I am a guy who is going to work hard regardless of the circumstance or situation.
As a player, they would describe my relentless work ethic and my desire to do everything I can to help our team prepare and play at the highest level. I put the team above all else.
How do you and your teammates make practice and film study fun?
We compete daily on the practice field and in the weight room to better ourselves, and we keep tallies on how many plays were made by each of us each day. We watch film together and pump each other up when we make plays.
When you are studying film, what is your main focus to gain a competitive advantage?
Watching the tendencies and alignments of my opponent according to the offensive personnel that are in the game. I focus on the players I will be matched against and watch what he is good at (whether it be good hands or if he comes head first every time (I call that a “head case”)). I also watch how the linebacker or D-End plays the run. When I watch this I look at whether he is a downhill linebacker or a smart, finesse linebacker that likes to avoid contact. This determines my approach on second level blocking. For D-Ends, I look at his style of play—is he a bull rusher or have multiple techniques—and I study what his “go to” moves are. When I study coverages, I watch how aggressive or passive the linebackers are. This determines my approach on either running by the backer or defeating hands then running by if he likes to collision on the route.
While at the Collegiate level, who has been the toughest player you have competed against?
That is a tough question because we have played against so many talented defenders. I would say Dakota Allen was the toughest this past year because he is a very smart player and smart players are the hardest players to go against and win the one on one battles.
For what in your life do you feel most grateful?
First off I am most grateful for my life itself. God doesn’t have to give us the days we live nor the air we breathe. Everyday I have on earth to enjoy my blessings and better myself—I am so grateful for that. Without life and air to breathe, I can’t take care of my fiancé and my child, without life my mom has no son to love.
If you could wake up tomorrow having gained one quality or ability, what would it be?
I would wake up tomorrow and do the right things that make others respect me more than they did the day before. That’s what I am working for right now—to earn the respect I deserve from my hard work.
What do you value most from your Collegiate experience?
Meeting my lovely fiancé, Selena. She means the world to me and my priority is to take care of her and my family.
Who is your personal hero?
My mother, Lionese Whittaker.
Tell me something about yourself nobody would know.
I am a movie head, I love to draw, and I love gospel music.
How do you work on yourself?
I get closer and closer to God every chance I get because through Him all is possible. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would have dinner with my fiancé, Selena, at her favorite restaurant. She fills my heart each day and every experience we have together is always different and interesting.
If you could have any superpower, what power would it be and why?
I would want teleportation powers. This way I could be anywhere I wanted and get there faster than the speed of light.
What would constitute a perfect day for you?
A day that I’ve been very productive, worked hard and given 100% of my time and energy toward my goals. I would also want to have made my family members smile at least once.
Who inspired you as a young athlete?
My step father, Reggie. He never pushed me too much, but he has instilled in me the competitor and beast I am today. He taught me to be the best at everything I do.
What are the positive attributes that you bring to a professional football team?
I understand what it takes to be a professional thanks to my parents. I aspire to be a great team leader and use my relentless work ethic to be productive and motivate others. I put the team first and I’m willing to do all in my power to help the team win. I am a high-character guy who has a strong and healthy relationship with my family and my faith—the team would never have to worry about my conduct off the field.
Tell me about a time where you overcame a challenge.
Losing my grandfather at a young age. He was my guy and I was his everything. Growing up, hitting milestones and accomplishments without him being there to see any of it has put a toll on me. It is something I have had to deal with, but I realize my grandfather is still watching me from above. I truly miss and love him.
What one skill would you like to improve on? What’s your plan for doing so?
I’d like to be better at making moves in the open field and breaking open field tackles. I plan to practice more “move making” decision drills.
If you could catch a TD from any NFL QB, past or present, who would It be and why?
Joe Montana, a true life legend. He is one of the best quarterbacks of all time.
What current/former NFL player do you model your playing style after?
Jordan Reed. Like Jordan, I focus on running the best routes, great hands (natural pass catcher), my lengthy stride helps me get behind the defense. We also have similar size and desire to block well.
What is the best part of your hometown; Houston, TX?
The Houston Skyline. We have a beautiful downtown.
In 15 words or less, give me your pitch to an NFL GM on why you should be a part of their organization.
I will play anything to help the team win. While still producing making others better.
- Joined
- May 8, 2014
- Messages
- 37,359
Alex Bachman:
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbOdAULkH_c
No cutups but here's a couple games:
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWdp_h3a1EU
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUyPmEhvj7g
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbOdAULkH_c
No cutups but here's a couple games:
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWdp_h3a1EU
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUyPmEhvj7g
- Joined
- Jun 18, 2014
- Messages
- 4,925
Romello Brooker article:
https://www.nfldraftdiamonds.com/2019/03/romello-brooker/
PROSPECT INTERVIEWS
NFL Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Romello Brooker, TE, University of Houston
by
Jonathan Joyce
Romello Brooker the tight end from Houston recently took time out of his busy schedule to sit down with Jonathan Joyce of Draft Diamond
Player Profile:
2018 Statistics:
- Romello Brooker
- University of Houston
- TE
- 6’5”
- 253lbs.
- Houston, TX
- Twitter: @BrookerRomello
- Instagram: highly_favored_brooker
What is your favorite song to listen to prior to competing?
- GP: 13
- Receptions: 33
- Receiving Yards: 409
- YPR: 12.39
- TD: 7
Beast – Rob Bailey & The Hustle Standard (feat. Busta Rhymes).
How would your teammates describe you as both a player and person?
As a person, I am genuine, humble man who values my faith, my loving family and my work ethic. I am a guy who is going to work hard regardless of the circumstance or situation.
As a player, they would describe my relentless work ethic and my desire to do everything I can to help our team prepare and play at the highest level. I put the team above all else.
How do you and your teammates make practice and film study fun?
We compete daily on the practice field and in the weight room to better ourselves, and we keep tallies on how many plays were made by each of us each day. We watch film together and pump each other up when we make plays.
When you are studying film, what is your main focus to gain a competitive advantage?
Watching the tendencies and alignments of my opponent according to the offensive personnel that are in the game. I focus on the players I will be matched against and watch what he is good at (whether it be good hands or if he comes head first every time (I call that a “head case”)). I also watch how the linebacker or D-End plays the run. When I watch this I look at whether he is a downhill linebacker or a smart, finesse linebacker that likes to avoid contact. This determines my approach on second level blocking. For D-Ends, I look at his style of play—is he a bull rusher or have multiple techniques—and I study what his “go to” moves are. When I study coverages, I watch how aggressive or passive the linebackers are. This determines my approach on either running by the backer or defeating hands then running by if he likes to collision on the route.
While at the Collegiate level, who has been the toughest player you have competed against?
That is a tough question because we have played against so many talented defenders. I would say Dakota Allen was the toughest this past year because he is a very smart player and smart players are the hardest players to go against and win the one on one battles.
For what in your life do you feel most grateful?
First off I am most grateful for my life itself. God doesn’t have to give us the days we live nor the air we breathe. Everyday I have on earth to enjoy my blessings and better myself—I am so grateful for that. Without life and air to breathe, I can’t take care of my fiancé and my child, without life my mom has no son to love.
If you could wake up tomorrow having gained one quality or ability, what would it be?
I would wake up tomorrow and do the right things that make others respect me more than they did the day before. That’s what I am working for right now—to earn the respect I deserve from my hard work.
What do you value most from your Collegiate experience?
Meeting my lovely fiancé, Selena. She means the world to me and my priority is to take care of her and my family.
Who is your personal hero?
My mother, Lionese Whittaker.
Tell me something about yourself nobody would know.
I am a movie head, I love to draw, and I love gospel music.
How do you work on yourself?
I get closer and closer to God every chance I get because through Him all is possible. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would have dinner with my fiancé, Selena, at her favorite restaurant. She fills my heart each day and every experience we have together is always different and interesting.
If you could have any superpower, what power would it be and why?
I would want teleportation powers. This way I could be anywhere I wanted and get there faster than the speed of light.
What would constitute a perfect day for you?
A day that I’ve been very productive, worked hard and given 100% of my time and energy toward my goals. I would also want to have made my family members smile at least once.
Who inspired you as a young athlete?
My step father, Reggie. He never pushed me too much, but he has instilled in me the competitor and beast I am today. He taught me to be the best at everything I do.
What are the positive attributes that you bring to a professional football team?
I understand what it takes to be a professional thanks to my parents. I aspire to be a great team leader and use my relentless work ethic to be productive and motivate others. I put the team first and I’m willing to do all in my power to help the team win. I am a high-character guy who has a strong and healthy relationship with my family and my faith—the team would never have to worry about my conduct off the field.
Tell me about a time where you overcame a challenge.
Losing my grandfather at a young age. He was my guy and I was his everything. Growing up, hitting milestones and accomplishments without him being there to see any of it has put a toll on me. It is something I have had to deal with, but I realize my grandfather is still watching me from above. I truly miss and love him.
What one skill would you like to improve on? What’s your plan for doing so?
I’d like to be better at making moves in the open field and breaking open field tackles. I plan to practice more “move making” decision drills.
If you could catch a TD from any NFL QB, past or present, who would It be and why?
Joe Montana, a true life legend. He is one of the best quarterbacks of all time.
What current/former NFL player do you model your playing style after?
Jordan Reed. Like Jordan, I focus on running the best routes, great hands (natural pass catcher), my lengthy stride helps me get behind the defense. We also have similar size and desire to block well.
What is the best part of your hometown; Houston, TX?
The Houston Skyline. We have a beautiful downtown.
In 15 words or less, give me your pitch to an NFL GM on why you should be a part of their organization.
I will play anything to help the team win. While still producing making others better.
Except for the Joe Montana answer, sounds good. It looks like decent TEs are looking to be UDFAs with the Rams - which makes sense. They know the Rams are looking to upgrade the third in that position, and the starter is a free agent after this season. There is an opportunity.
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Brandon Hitner was a priority free agent too btw. He's an interesting prospect because he's pretty lean for a big dude, looks almost like a big TE.
(Turn sound off lol)
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnr-U2HX0h4
(Turn sound off lol)
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnr-U2HX0h4
Memento
Your (Somewhat) Friendly Neighborhood Authoress.
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- Name
- Jemma
Kendall Blanton cutup:
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TyAIDRqP1Fk
Article:
https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019...-prospect-interview-kendall-blanton-missouri/
Meet Kendall Blanton, Missouri's complete TE prospect
Winning the NFL draft is all about maximizing value and finding key contributors outside the first few rounds. If your favorite NFL team is looking for a steal at tight end, Missouri’s Kendall Blanton might just be their guy.
A versatile prospect with a well-rounded skill set, Blanton recently spoke exclusively with Draft Wire about his career at Missouri, which NFL tight ends he models his game after, and what he brings to the next level as a prospect.
ZH: Before we get into the football questions, just how was your overall experience at Missouri?
KB: I loved it. Wouldn’t have traded it for the world. I met a lot of lifelong friends, some guys that I don’t know where I’d be if I never met them, and the overall experience I loved it and it was just great.
ZH: What was it like playing with a QB like Drew Lock the last few seasons?
KB: I actually just got done running some routes with him, and me and Damarea Crockett were just kind of saying the same thing, there’s not a lot of quarterbacks that are equal to who he is and just how easily and effortless it is for him to just throw the ball. Kind of gotta be ready for it every time he throws it. Not too long ago, he was throwing and I was like, “Man, let me get my mind right.” It was a great experience though, man. He was a great quarterback and I wouldn’t have asked for anybody else.
Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
ZH: After your final season at Missouri in 2018, you were invited to play in the Shrine Game. How was that experience for you?
KB: Another blessing. Another great opportunity. I really took pride in just having an opportunity to huddle up (laughs). We didn’t huddle up a lot at Mizzou. I mean, I was fortunate enough this last season to run a pro-style offense, so being able to huddle up in the Shrine practices and in the Shrine Game, that was something new, and getting our plays from the QB instead from the sidelines was all new. I took pride in playing in all the special teams, as well, so that was just a good experience getting that under my belt, as well.
ZH: I read that you have a bit of a basketball background. How does that translate to playing tight end?
KB: Just knowing how to use your body. In basketball, you gotta be good at knowing how to use your body in small spaces when boxing out opponents or things like going up and getting a rebound. I actually took pride on the defensive end. I think I had the shot-block record in Missouri (high school state record), and I know I have the shot-block record at my school, so I took pride in the defensive end, just knowing how to go up and read shots and go up and block them.
Translating that to football, going up and getting the ball in the air and using your body in tight windows or to shed off a defender. I think it just helped me out footwork wise. I think stuff like that just translated over.
ZH: You only caught 44 passes in your career. Was that because you are more of a blocking tight end, or just how the offense was run at Mizzou?
KB: We got a lot of good tight ends that come through here. I’m more of a traditional Y tight end. I feel like I can do both, block and catch, but we had a lot of good tight ends coming in. I think it was the best tight end group in the last six years or so at any college program, Albert Okwuegbunam was basically our receiving tight end, as we would spread him out and do things with that. It was just what the team needed from me though, a guy who could block and wasn’t afraid to stick his nose in with the big guys we were facing in the SEC and go toe-to-toe with them. I’d do that everyday, and I was fortunate enough to play in the SEC, as a lot of those guys you are going to see on Sundays, so I got to block them. That’s just what they wanted me to do, though, and I’m not going to argue with the coaches.
Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
ZH: For people unfamiliar with your game, what is your biggest strength going to the NFL?
KB: I can do both, I can block and I can catch. I’m a complete tight end, and I’m not afraid to put my hand in the dirt, and I’m not afraid to stand up and go toe-to-toe with anyone across from me. From my basketball background, I know how to use my body and go up and get a ball, just like I did in basketball.
ZH: Which NFL players do you compare your game to the most?
KB: I’m really just me. I watch a lot of NFL guys, and if you want to be good, you have to watch the guys before you, and you got to take pieces of their game that you like and make it your own. I’ve watched a lot of guys like Rob Gronkowski, Marcedes Lewis, Martellus Bennett, Jason Witten. Tony Gonzalez is my favorite tight end by far, though. The GOAT in my opinion; the greatest tight end to ever play. So, I watch a lot of those guys. Guys that like to put their hand in the ground and have the capability to be spread out wide and be used in the passing game. I kind of watch all of those guys and take bits and pieces and implement it into my game.
ZH: What is my team getting if I draft Kendall Blanton?
KB: A guy that is going to work harder than anybody. I’m gonna come in and be a sponge from whoever. I want to learn how to be a pro, that is my first goal like how to watch film, how to study a playbook, how to practice. Then, after I’ve accomplished all of that, I’m gonna take somebody’s spot and try to help the team to the best of my ability to win a championship. That is the ultimate goal, win a championship and be the best player I can be. Everybody has their own goals, I have my own, but I want to help the team win, and that is the biggest goal.
Huge fan of Blanton. Albert Okwuegbunam got the accolades, but Blanton did the tough blocking, even though he's an excellent receiving tight end in his own right.
If any free agent makes this roster, I think it's Blanton.
Last edited:
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He also learned under Cooper Kupp. Have to think there's an advantage there in knowing Coop who can help him get ready in those windows where the team cannot coach him due to NFLPA restrictions.
Another feather in his cap is the return experience btw, which I think is something that would obviously give him a roster spot if he can win that role.
No cutups of him of course. But here's the championship game vs the Bisons and he makes the first reception on third down by workin back to his QB on a scramble drill (number 5):
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4awGeD6YhV0