Name: Ezrah Thibodeaux
School: Texas A&M University Kingsville
Position: DL/EDGE
Height: 6-3
Weight: 270

Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?

A personal goal of mine was to be voted as a 1st team all conference player. I already viewed myself as one of the best defensive lineman in the conference, so earning the respect of the coaches in this conference means a lot to me knowing that they see me as such too.

Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?

I think they’d describe me as being a baller, and somebody that’s going to get the job done. You need me to two-gap an offensive tackle? I’m on it. You need a guy to plug the A gap and fight the double team? I’m the guy. You need pressure somebody to put pressure on the QB? I’m on it. There were even times when I had to drop into coverage with the linebackers or play man on the RB out of the backfield.

Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?

When I’m looking at film on my opponents I look at their tendencies in scenarios like if they’re a heavy run team on second and medium or if they like to go for big passes at the start of each possession. Then I’ll look at the offensive line and see what they’re strengths and weakness are. For example, if they are good with their feet or if they lack eye discipline, and what pass rush moves have worked against them in previous games. The more I can learn about the opponent the better.

Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?

I was brought up under the principle that it’s hard work that gets you to where you want to be in life. Your work speaks louder than words ever will. I knew with being at a smaller school I wouldn’t get the same exposure as others would, but I made it a point to prove that I can play with the best of the best across all divisions. “Leave no doubt” is what my coach Eddie Moten always told me and that’s how I attack each workout and each practice and each film session. That mindset that was instilled me is what makes me different. A lot of dudes are going to say they’re hungry but for me it’s more than being hungry it’s being insatiable.

Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?

My plan is to focus on the small things that I can improve in my game. My coaches and trainers have developed a program for me to get ready for future combines and pro days in order for me to perform at my best when my best is needed. At the end of the day it’s simply coming to work everyday and pushing myself to be better and be purposeful in my training. Focusing on improving my speed while maintaining my strength and power is the plan.

Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?

My football IQ is a strength that I’ll bring to a team, through watching film and recognizing patterns and tendencies in my opponent. Another strength of mine is my actual strength, throughout college I’ve been the one to line up against the best offensive lineman on the other team. If a team has a favorite guy they like to run their plays behind I’m sent to that side to shut it down. An off the field strength of mine is that I try to build relationships with my teammates that go beyond the field. I’ve seen how much of a difference that can make in a program and that trust between each other is needed for this sport.

Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?

To any teams looking for a trench dog that’s not scared of getting his hands dirty, I’M YOUR GUY. I’m not the type to hold back so when you get me you get a guy that will give you his 100 percent every day in every way. I’m not a politician I’m a football player, I’ll show you that I’m the guy better than I can tell you. I just need the opportunity to do so.