Name: Rigoberto Villa Jr
School: Defiance College
Position: DT
Height: 6-1
Weight: 285
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
What I set to accomplish in my last college season was to become and All-Conference Defensive player and the DPOTY in my conference. Also to be a great leader for the freshman and under class men and to them to finish what they started and always be accountable.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I would say coaches and teammates of mine would say I’m a selfless player and I’ll always put the teams success before my own. They’d also say I’m one of the toughest Defensive Tackles they’ve ever seen, coached or played with. Also, they would say I’m a grinder, no matter what the job is I’ll grind it out and get it done and will never quit or give in for anything. Finally they would say I’m a guy who willing to do whatever it takes to help the defense stop offenses and make sure while on the field that everyone know Ms the play call and their assignments from the DLine all the way to the Secondary guys behind me.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
What I focus most on when it comes to film is the 3 main guys on the interior OLine who I will be facing. Their tendencies, when they get tired who well they play through that. How well the OLine move laterally and vertical in their run schemes and pass blocking. I watch the opposing OLine’s hand placement and how high or low they strike and coming off the ball. Also I look at formation pre-snap and if there’s a TE which side he lines up on or at H-Back. Finally I study Down and Distance and what kind of plays my opponent is most likely to do on certain down and distances.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I feel like separates me from other pro prospects at my position is my grit, focus, hustle, effort, accountability, and never give up attitude & will. I also feel my adaptability to a game situations and playing scheme . I have played in a 4-3, 3-4 and 3-3-5 defense in my collegiate career. Playing in those 3 different fronts and schemes I feel has helped me to be the best possible interior Defensive Lineman.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
In the off-season I plan on training at a my schools workout facility and a performance center to maintain the best possible shape I can. Play professional football has always been a dream of mine, and a dream that only I believe I can achieve. This is an opportunity of a lifetime and I certainly do not want to miss out on it or not be up to the standard to compete. I will be ready upon the given opportunity by anyone.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
The strengths I bring to the team on the field is a great nose guard. One that is willing to sprint sideline to sideline for 60 minutes straight. Also an accountable nose guard who will maintain gap integrity and make every play that comes my way. Also a player who plays with relentless effort and motor. The strengths I bring to the off the field is someone who loves to help the community with community service and help give back to the children and help the next generation of football players. Helping grow the community positively is what I enjoy doing the most off the field to keep young kids in school and on the fields or courts fathers than running the streets.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
My pitch is I’m a small D3 Defensive Tackle that can play at a high level and can get any job done at all positions up front. I have a massive chip on my shoulder that won’t go away, and I have a deep burning desire to be the great interior DLinemen to ever play a down wherever I play. This pro dream of mine is something I always wanted to do and become. With barley any support or true belief in my dreams, I kept pushing forward and never let anyone get in my away especially now! I want to show all the kids and everyone around the world no matter the Division you play in, you can go pro anywhere with hard work dedication, and faith. Also I plan on be an immediate leader than I can be for the defense and the team overall. To any pro coaching staff in the world who scouts me I greatly appreciate it and I’m honored! I promise to wherever I sign they will not regret it and I will prove that everyday that represent the team and city on my chest proudly!