Name: James (Jimmy) Murray
School: College of the Holy Cross
Position: Offensive Center/Offensive Line
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 305
Q: What were some of your goals heading into your final collegiate season?
For the most part, I was focused primarily on the team goals heading into the season. Our first and biggest goal was to win a Patriot League Championship, which we ultimately fell short of and by the end of the season we hadn’t won as many games as we all wanted to. On a more personal level, I was focused on being effective at a new position (Moving from Center to Left Tackle). Learning steps/blocks from a different stance/position was tough at first, but with good coaching, I thought I picked it up pretty quick and did a good job as a whole.
Q: If you could describe your style of play in 3 words, what would they be?
Smart, Quick, Relentless.
Q: How will you train and prepare this offseason for the draft or other pro opportunities?
I’ve been working out at a place called TCBoost in Northbrook, IL with some other prospects from Uconn, Northwestern, and Wheaton. The facility is all of 10 minutes away from my house, so living and eating at home with my family again has been a great time and I’m glad everything worked out so well.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on or look for?
Early on in the week, I would look at all of their defensive fronts and go through every possible run play coming from the offensive sets. After that, I’d go through the blitz tape and once both of those were through, I’d watch as many games as I could to see their personnel. I’d be looking for any moves that a given D-Lineman had shown on tape and also look for any tells they showed before a stunt/inside move.
Q: What separates you from the other players at your position?
I’m smart and understand defensive schemes well, which makes it easy to get the offensive line all on the same page and going in the right direction. Additionally, my quickness allows me to make some tougher blocks that not all centers can make.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
As a captain of my team this past season, I have experience being a leader and truly believe that’s an all the time job, both on the field and off. Additionally, I can keep things loose off the field and in the locker room, but know when it’s time to flip the switch.
Q: What is your final pitch or sell to NFL and other pro league scouts?
Being under recruited going into college, I’ve always played with a chip on my shoulder and will continue to do so, especially at the next level. As my strength/technical work continues to improve, any NFL team that gives me a chance will not regret it.