Name: Dereon Carr
School: Hampton
Position: DB
Height: 6’1″
Weight: 205
Q: What goals did you accomplish heading into your final collegiate season?
Finished the season as a captain, leading the team to the best record within my 4 years there. Led the defense in PBU’s and finish 3rd in tackles.
Q: What would your coaches say about the type of player you are?
I’m a player that has great instincts and a hard hitter that is very smart and can also create turnovers. I also bring leadership and a level of tenacity that not many bring to the table. I’m very fearless and willing to do whatever it takes to enhance the team.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
I focus on myself first, what I can do better as far as the little details such as my angles in pursuit, my feet work and eye control. When studying my opponent, I look at the lineman to see which one of the 5 will give me the best pass/run read, read the quarterback’s progressions and tendencies. Whether the quarterback is very smart with his eyes and decisions or does he like to bait you or take chances. With wide receivers, I study their stances, does he take plays off when it’s a run. How does he release for his routes, is he very shifty in his routes or a in and out one cut type of guy, what routes does he excel on, and how does he attack his defenders.
Q: What separates you from the other players at your position?
I think many DBs shy away from contact, I think that’s what separates me because I bring that type of energy and set the tone with big hits, where the offense will always feel my presence. I feel like I can excel at any position you put me at whether it’s safety, nickel, linebacker or corner.
Q: How will you train and prepare this offseason for the draft or other pro opportunities?
I really been focusing on my speed and agility, trying to keep my body healthy feeling good. While also seeking knowledge trying to get a grasp of what I can do to get better in all aspects of my game so that I am prepared for the next level.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I think that I can bring a lot to the table whether it’s defense or special teams. I think special teams will be very important for me to make a name for myself. I think I bring a lot of good energy on the field with my style of play that others feed off of. Outside of football, I think that I’m a great guy thats very mature, humble and self motivated. I think that I could gain peoples trust quickly and that will take me a long way coming in the league.
Q: What is your final pitch or sell to NFL and other pro league scouts?
If you looking for a great athlete and an even better person to impact your organization, I’m your guy. Not many DBs like to play hard nose football, but that’s what I have done all of my life and I’m ready to prove myself at the next level. I’ve always had a chip on my shoulder so I’m always going give you everything I got. I’m very versatile, can play multiple positions and all of special teams. I’ve always been the best person I can be on and off the field, I feel like I can make an immediate impact anywhere you put me.
