Name: Jeremy Edwards
School: Eastern Kentucky University
Position: P
Height: 6-3
Weight: 225
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
I wanted to be the most effective player on special teams. Punters don’t get a whole lot of playing time unless the offence isn’t running smoothly, being on a team with a solid offence, I wanted to make sure whenever I got the chance to go out there, I was as effective as possible for the defence to start with good field position. I wanted to become a leader for the team, and be the best teammate I possibly could.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I would say the coaches think I am a player they can depend on. I was able to do my job this year consistently and effectively, meaning the punt team was one factor of the game they didn’t have to worry about. They could call for a punt with the full expectation I was going to either flip the field or pin the opposition deep consistently. As for my teammates, I think they would say I am a strong personality that brings the best out of other people. I like to build up my teammates to ensure they’re playing to the best of their abilities and making the most out of their time at Eastern.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
I focus on the opposition return game more than anything. There was a few games this year where our opposition had a strong returner who was quite dynamic. I looked at his film and his tendencies throughout the week so I was prepared for the task on game day. These weeks where we had the strong return game, I’d say to the coaches on the sideline what kind of punt I wanted to run, and that I was just going to kick it on the ground away from him, eliminating the possibility of a return and maximising field position. Secondly I focus on their punt block team, to see what kind of pressure is coming towards me. I am confident in my operation time and punt team that this doesn’t really bother me, but it is important to keep in mind when looking at their formations.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
My leadership, personality and dynamic ability. I like to be at the front of the team so I can build relationships and ensure everyone is getting the most out of themselves. There is no point in being a star player if you can’t get the same level of commitment and dedication out of your teammates. Football is a team sport and I want to make mates for life on the way to a championship. My play style is quite diverse and dynamic, I can roll out rugby style as well as staying in the pocket pro style too. Kicking away from the returner and keeping my eyes up on the play allows me to move around the pocket, hold the ball and let my coverage team do their jobs to the best of their abilities leading to the teams success. I’m also adapting my style and adding new weapons to my arsenal in the coming months too.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I’m playing in the FAF Pro Dip Senior Bowl in New York on the 2nd of December, then I’ll fly back to Australia for the month of December to work with my punting coaches at ProKick Australia. After a month in Aus I will fly to Dallas to play in the Dream Bowl in Richardson Texas on the 21st of January. I will then fly back to Richmond KY to train and prepare for Pro day. During this time I will work closely with my coaches and past team mates to prepare for different professional opportunities both on and off the field.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
The team that selects me and gives me an opportunity is going to be getting someone who is ready to play from day 1. My diverse foot skills are going to set me apart from other punters and allow me to flip the field in multiple aways, allowing the defence to start in the most efficient position possible. Both on and off the field you will be getting a teammate who leads by example, and brings the best out of the people around him.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
Giving me the opportunity to play for your organisation will be something you will never regret. Loyal to a fault, I will give my absolute all for the organisation to ensure we achieve success, on and off the field. I look forward to being in contact, and I cannot wait to get to work.