Name: Evander Craft
School: New Mexico Highlands
Position: LB
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 225

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

The goals I set for myself were to become a starter instead of a role player like I was at my previous school (Toledo) to come in and change a program that’s known for losing into a winning culture and lead guys into the right direction on and off the field.

Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?

I took advantage of my covid year, I got to put some more tape out there for the world to see and got to play in high level competition throughout the year along with the film study I got to learn the terminology better with different defensive schemes as well as being a starter on every special teams unit but one.

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

My coaches would say I’m a leader by example, they wish I was more vocal which is something I’ve been working on but they know I’m going to come in day in and day out and work my tail off, I’m productive and was a huge contributor in helping the defense be one of the best in division 2 with takeaways. My teammates would also refer to me as a do it all type of guy, I always put myself in the best position possible to make plays and communicate pre snap to make sure everyone’s in sync.

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

When I study film I try and look and things through progressions, I had a huge problem with overrunning pulling guards so I always analyzed the speed of the center/guards against opposing teams so I got a good idea how to play those blocks. I’m always looking at my footwork and speed on different runs since I consider myself a sideline to sideline linebacker to see how I can play run and get on and off blocks faster. When we’re in situations like man to man I watch the running back and tight-end routes based on formations to avoid picks and play inside leverage because I’m someone who really trust their recovery speed in coverage.

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

What separates me is my mentality, i’ve always been a high level and high character guy who always finds a way to make something happen when it looks impossible, not just in football but life. I’m someone that trains 365 days out of the year even if football wasn’t a thing, I take phenomenal care of my body & am very discipline with my diet which is the reason why I’ve been very healthy and have had no major injuries throughout my collegiate career. Im someone who’s coaches throughout juco, division 1, and division 2, where the strength coaches from all levels can say I’ve never missed a lift, and every position and head coach can say has never missed a meeting or practice. I have always been there for my team even through tough times.

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

This off-season I recently played in the Dream Bowl which is an all star game for division 1-3 held in Virginia which I competed in a couple weeks ago. I Started at will linebacker and recorded 5 tackles along with a pass break up. But now I’m back home in Milwaukee, Wisconsin training at different locations preparing for my pro day. Once my pro day happens and I run the times I expect I’ve been in talks with agents I’m pursuing to sign with especially being a small school guy that’s going to help me a ton having great representation.

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

I’m going to bring in great athleticism to any team that brings me in. I’m believed to have great length and speed playing linebacker. I will always be early to meetings and extra film sessions, I naturally create a competitive aroma around me which keeps everyone locked into the main goal.

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

Lastly if you want a guy who’s a sleeper statistically and can just bring in for a tryout, I believe teams will be shocked with what I have to offer and will be able to turn me into a dominant player once I get into a system.