Name: Conner Lierz
School: Emporia State University
Position: C/G
Height: 6-2
Weight: 295

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

The goal every year at Emporia State University is to be playing for a MIAA championship and a playoff spot. Even though we fell short of that goal we finished with a bowl win and a 9-3 season. For a personal goal it was to be a 1st team MIAA player and that was accomplished. I was also named First Team Super Region 3 (only MIAA to do so) and a nominee for the Gene Upshaw Award (Top D2 Offensive Lineman).

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

Confident, Tough, and Genuine. I love my teammates and I love to win. I think those are the reasons why I was named a Captain for my senior year.

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

In the offseason I like to watch teams at the next level like the Browns, Rams, and Panthers. Because of similar schemes they run and also the notoriety they have either from the success of the position group or the coaches they have. Then obviously personal tape, to see where you can improve either from a practice or game. Finally, seeing upcoming opponents D-line and how they play down blocks, reach blocks, and how they set up against similar styles as our team.

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

A couple different things. My durability and toughness. I played in all 48 games possible in my college career (including special teams). And then the extra work. Whether it be in the weight room or watching extra film and talking technique with my position coach, Coach Cashdollar.

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

I’m looking forward to training at Performance Course in Edmond, Oklahoma. They’ve prepared multiple players for the next level over the last few years.

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

My work ethic, preparation, and aggression, is what has gotten me to this point and what they will get. I prepare my body (recovery) and mind (film study) to execute my various assignments on the field in a violent manner.

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

I feel I am prepared as a player, I’ve competed and had success against current NFL talent in Junior College (Perrion Winfrey, Cleveland Browns) and the MIAA (Sam Roberts, New England Patriots). As a person, I plan on eventually becoming a coach and spending my life in this sport. Until that time comes they will get an individual that dedicates his life and time on and off the field to this game because it is something I love and who I am.