Recently I was able to conduct an interview with Clemson defensive end, Terry Bryant. Bryant was a three year starter for Clemson at RE. He helped pace the Tigers defense to the nations top ranking in Total Defense for the first half of the 2000 season. He possesses great strength and good speed as a pass rusher, while also being able to handle double-teams and stop the run. He was named Honorable Mention All-ACC with 7 first place votes. Below is some info on Terry, followed by our interview.
|
Name: Terry Bryant
School: Clemson
Position: DE
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 285
40 Time: 4.90
Draft Status: 6th-7th round projection
My View: Terry is a very nice, intelligent, and talented young man. He's got nice size at 6'4", 285 and he's excellent against the run. He's one of the bigger DE's in the draft, so his size will draw some attention. Overall, I think Terry has the tools to work with, but he may see limited time early. With proper coaching, he can become a steady DE at the professional level.
INTERVIEW:
Q: What kind of person will an NFL team be getting when they draft?
T.B.: I'm a very responsible, hard working man. I'm also dependable and I stay completely out of trouble. I graduated from college already, so I'm a very intelligent person as well.
Q: What have you heard about your draft status?
T.B.: I think I'm a third or fourth rounder, but I don't know for sure.
Q: What are your plans after your football career is over?
T.B.: I want to start my own business. Probably something in real estate. To be honest, as long as I can take care of family, that's all that matters to me.
Q: What are your three playing strengths?
T.B.: I think my three biggest strengths are my ability to stop the run, drop into coverage, and stunt.
Q: Do you have any weaknesses that you're looking to improve on?
T.B.: I would like to get more moves in my pass rushing game. I think I'm steady all around the board, but you can never have too many rush moves.
Q: Are you physically ready for the NFL?
T.B.: Yes I am. I've always been a very hard worker and I've always been strong. The NFL is alot faster, but I know I can adjust. I've got the athletic ability to really be strong at my position.
Q: Are you mentally ready as well?
T.B.: Yes. I've been through alot in my college career and I've overcome alot too. I'm a three year starter, and extremely mentally tough. I think I'm mature enough to handle everything the NFL will throw my way.
Q: What are you doing to stay focused?
T.B.: I just keep my head straight. You can't let any of this stuff get to your head or you'll fall on your face.
Q: Do you think you've been overlooked by scouts?
T.B.: I know I have. I have never worked out for scouts. In fact, one NFL scout told me that was a big reason why teams don't have me rated high eonough. I just feel that if I stay focused, everything will fall into place.
Q: How do you feel you stack up with Justin Smith and Jamal Reynolds?
T.B.: I feel I stack up very well. I play the run alot better than anyone in the country. I also think I'm more durable. Overall, I feel that if put side by side with all of the top DE's, I'd hold my own.
Q: What are your goals for your rookie season?
T.B.: I want to work hard and learn as much as I can from the veteran players. I know I'll get the attention of the coaches and I'll get a fair amount of playing time. I just want to get my feet in the door.
Q: Is there a team that you've always wanted to play for?
T.B.: Nope. I just always dreamed about playing in the NFL. I don't care about what team it is. Whatever team I go to will see that I'm all about winning.
M.G.: Thanks for your time Terry! Good Luck!
T.B.: Thanks Matt! I appreciate it.
|
