Name: Faustino Saucedo
School: West Virginia State
Position: QB
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 225
Q: What goals did you accomplish heading into your final collegiate season?
When I think back and reflect on my final collegiate season, I first think about my impression heading in. I knew from the start that it was going to be tough, given that it was a new school and new playbook, so I had many goals lined up for myself, and luckily, I accomplished them. I accomplished learning my 5th playbook in and out, I threw more efficiently, and I was able to understand what types of plays to call at certain situations.
Q: What would your coaches say about the type of player you are?
My coaches would say that I am a very strong competitor whose head is always in the game. My knowledge of the game and my ability to learn quickly is something they could attest to. I’m the type of player who makes sure I have a great relationship with the team on and off the field. I believe that’s very important in order to play as one, so that’s something that they would definitely pick up and mention.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
I focus on the smallest details that I need to improve on. For instance, how quick I should release the ball, how many steps I need to take, or if I’m false stepping. I also focus on the defense that we are up against and what types of schemes they do. I try to dissect their strengths and weaknesses. I also focus in on our strengths as a team and certain individuals in order to drive down the field.
Q: What separates you from the other players at your position?
What separates me from the other players at my position is my drive. I’ve learned five different playbooks in a matter of four years, I compete at all costs and I stop at nothing to be a valued leader that the team looks up to and wants to play for. I take full advantage of any and every opportunity that is presented to me. Coming from a disadvantaged background, I make it a point to succeed by whatever means necessary. Being a minority has granted me the humility and drive to do the best I can.
Q: How will you train and prepare this offseason for the draft or other pro opportunities?
This offseason I am training at Deebo Training Systems with my mentor. We are working on footwork, speed, balance agility, and strength. I’m also working on explosiveness. We train 4 times a week, twice a day. We throw 3 times a week and stretch every day. Mentally, I frequently review game film of all my games and watch break down film of previous NFL games. I also put myself in certain situations to see what I’ll do against defenses.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I am a coachable athlete that will retain a lot of information and help others with their plays. I will bring my competitiveness, which will help the team bring out the best out of each other. Being an older adult, I bring maturity and wisdom both on and off the field. My strong communication skills have proven to be something that’s led players to easily approach me regarding personal matters or on the field issues. I have many close friends from the last four schools I’ve been to because of it.
Q: What is your final pitch or sell to NFL and other pro league scouts?
I come from a family that didn’t have anything. They always worked hard for what they wanted to achieve, so I was brought up to always work hard and not to take anything for granted. The chances of me ever playing college football were slim to none; I defeated those odds. If I was ever given the opportunity to be on any professional team, I promise to take full advantage of the opportunity, continue to improve and learn from it, and never settle.
