Name: Jeremiah Harris
School: Eastern Michigan
Position: DE
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 250
Q: What goals did you accomplish heading into your final collegiate season?
I was coming off an ACL injury at the start of my final season. My main goal was to get back to my normal self and play like I knew how. Toward the end of the season I finally felt strong and explosive, something I intend to carry out through my NFL training process.
Q: What would your coaches say about the type of player you are?
If I had to guess my coaches would say I’m a smart player. I know my job and the job of others around me. I execute my plays and try to uplift others when they do the same. I’m a team player and ultimately try to do what’s best whether it’s to contain or rush the quarterback.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
When I watch film, I look for tendencies in my opponent. As a DE you are always studying the tackle. What kind of stance is he in? What does his pass stance look like? Does he lean? Does he look? Does he shoot his hands? Is he patient with his hands? What have other players beaten him with? What kind of move would work on him? Depending on the formation, how is he as a run blocker? You can look at the formation and know what kind of play they are going to run. What kind of tendencies does the offense have in this formation compared to another. There’s a lot you can learn just by watching tape.
Q: What separates you from the other players at your position?
Knowledge is one thing that separates me from other players. I can pick up tendencies through film and play faster because I’ve gone through the situation many times during week leading up to the game. I also think that my tenacity helps me. Outworking people that are more talented than me. Running hard when no one else is. Being early, never late. All of these things play a role.
Q: How will you train and prepare this offseason for the draft or other pro opportunities?
I’m currently training at Grosetti Performance In New Castle, PA. I will continue to get faster and stronger, while working on getting better at my position.
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 my strongest qualities would be leadership, tenacity, coachability, work ethic, and just my overall drive to do whatever it takes to be the best player and athlete I can be, on and off the field.
Q: What is your final pitch or sell to NFL and other pro league scouts?
I am here to work and help a team win as many games as possible. Nothing is given but earned and that is something I understand completely. Now that I am healthy and stronger than ever, I know I can play this game at a high level. I believe my knowledge and football IQ can help me make critical decisions on the field, as well as stay calm when adversity hits. I’m thankful to be put into a position to continue my career and am eager to get going.
