Name: Daniel Vega
School: Coe
Position: DL
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 292
Q: What goals did you accomplish heading into your final collegiate season?
One of my main goals was to be a first team all-conference. I thought I should have been a selection my junior season, but I was left off so I felt that I owed my team and myself a breakout final year. I also wanted to lose 20 lbs in the summer so I could play defensive end. I was able to achieve my goal and I felt faster and quicker. I went from 290 to 270 over the summer. I was able to put on some good weight throughout the season that continued through the off-season.
Q: What would your coaches say about the type of player you are?
I believe that my coaches would say that I am the type of guy that won’t give up. I believe that they would say I have quick hands and a good first step. I believe that they would say that I can change a game.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
When I watch film of our team and myself, I tend to look at my get off, my hands, and my hustle. If I see that my get off isn’t as fast as it should, I tend to work on that. If I am not working my hands properly, I try to use them more throughout the next week of practice/game. When I watch opponents, I look at their get off and the steps they take. If they have tendencies, I try to find a way to beat them.
Q: What separates you from the other players at your position?
I would say that my drive to outwork the guy in front of me. I hate getting beat. If I do, I continue to work to become better each rep. I also thing my run defense is my best attribute. I know when to hold my position and get off blocks. My patients is what helps me there.
Q: How will you train and prepare this offseason for the draft or other pro opportunities?
This offseason I will continue to workout at school 4-5 times a week that will include weight training along with speed and agility workouts. I will also continue to better my nutrition so I can cut fat and add muscle.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
On the field, I will work my tail off and help better the team. I was a captain of my high school team and in college, so I know what it takes to help lead a team. I believe that I am pretty good at communicating. I would do whatever is needed to help make the team better. Off the field, I tend to stay away from trouble. I have done my best to steer clear of it throughout my life. I am also very personable so I find it easy to get a long with teammates and coaches. I also take “coaching” very well. I understand the difference between yelling and coaching.
Q: What is your final pitch or sell to NFL and other pro league scouts?
I believe that I have what it takes to play with some of the best talent around. I will work my tail off for the team, as long as I am there. I will be a model that emulates what the team is about, on and off the field.
