Name: Anthony DeBella
School: St. Olaf
Position: OL
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 300

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

I wanted to help set up my team for future success by being a leader and implementing a positive culture that would continue once I left. I also set the personal goal of being all-conference three times in a row which I was able to achieve. Lastly, at the beginning of the season, I recognized that I wasn’t being as vocal of a leader as I had the potential to be, so that was something that I focused on throughout my final season.

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

I think they would say that I’m the guy that is able to consistently finish his blocks to the whistle. They would also say that I play with a lot of passion and strive to challenge myself everyday on and off the field.

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

I like to focus on tendencies. If I’m scouting another team, I tend to watch my opponent on repeat looking for subtle weaknesses that I can take advantage of during competition. For example, a heavy hand on a defensive end or noticing trends in pass rush moves that would allow me to determine what that player might do on the field. When I’m watching myself, I like to watch the plays where I make mistakes and learn where I went wrong so I never make the same mistake twice.

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

I believe it was something that was instilled in me from a young age, I call it FBI — football intelligence. I believe I can quickly pick up on defenses and schemes, allowing me to learn on the fly, adjust as needed, and play each game prepared and knowledgeable.

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

Post Tropical Bowl I plan to be working out and training, preparing for a possible pro day. I’m going to focus on building my strength overall and cutting time off my 40-yard dash.

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

As I said before, I think I’m an intelligent player and a leader. I know when to step up but also when to take the advice of my teammates and coaches. I think that on the field I bring consistency and dependability as any offensive lineman should. Lastly, being from my college, which is a small close knit community, I think I also come with the ability to help bring a group of people toward a common goal while also bringing out the best in each individual person.

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

While I may be from a smaller school than some, I will always believe I can dominate anyone in the country. Something I have dealt with throughout my high school and college career is people doubting me because of the lacking competition, small schools or limited wins. While some may think this, I believe my attitude, drive, and passion for the game of football is unmatched and something that has fueled my play for years. I want to take my passion for the game into each opportunity that presents itself and hopefully to the highest level that I can.