Name: Cedric Dashiell II
School: Bentley University
Position: EDGE/FB
Height: 6-0
Weight: 245

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

This season I wanted to win the conference, and win defensive player of the year. I was looking forward to trying get back to the playoffs and going undefeated as well.

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

They would say that I am a selfless and extremely intelligent player that is a good leader and teammate. They would say that my effort and knowledge of the game is unquestionable, and that I hold my teammates and myself accountable to the goals that we have set ourselves.

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

Personally, I always look at the basics and make sure that I am perfecting the fundamentals. Things like hand placement, get off, leverage. Am I standing straight up out of my stance, what type of set did the OL give me, and did I make the right read? Every snap I want my basics to be perfect, so when I start looking to add more advance techniques to my game, I do not have to keep going back to the day 1 fundamentals because those are perfect.

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

I think what separates me is my IQ and my production, both of which go hand in hand. I feel that when it comes to X’s and O’s, God has blessed me to think the game at a high level where I am able to anticipate plays the offense makes which leads to my production in game being so high. Many times, in games, I can make adjustments on a play-to-play basis and that helps me play at a fast level.

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

Thanks to God, this offseason I have already started to put together a plan to tighten up some things physically and become a better athlete, I have started some of my training at Athletic Evolution while simultaneously taking a yoga class to become more nimble, and honestly, just to help me relax. Stretching can be relaxing and I feel better taking the class.

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 an edge rusher; I was an every down person in high school and college. First through fourth down I have been on the field, I am a productive playmaker, and I have been at every level. My ability to get after the quarterback tactfully is a blessing, and I think that with any team that I am given an opportunity to play at or go to, Lord willing, I can continue to be a productive edge rusher, and get after the quarterback. Obviously, my role in the NFL will be vastly different, but I will do whatever it takes and accept whatever mold I need to make my goals happen.

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

My pitch would be that I am willing to do all the grunt work, and work my way onto a roster. Obviously, I understand that nothing is guaranteed, and that is more than fine with me. I am a competitor, and my production over my career has shown that. My goal are only to play and compete with the best of the best. Lord willing, I am given this opportunity and I will do everything that is asked of me, even the smallest things I will make happen. I have been productive all 4 years at college, and God has blessed me with the ability to play with the best of them. I just want to seize my opportunity, and if my number is called nobody will be more prepared than I am.