Name: Brendan Costa
School: Bates College
Position: QB/ATH
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 190
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
At the beginning of the year I wanted to help my team win more games than the previous season, and be a much more competitive program and I can say we fulfilled that goal.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
I took advantage of my final year by really learning discipline and what it takes to succeed on the field in the off-season. I was always an off-season grinder dating back to my high school days but leading up to the 2021 season I really fell in love with the whole off-season process of taking care of your body and strengthening the mind for the coming year. It really paid off and I think I can take this process and continue to apply it each off-season. Then on the field I believe my ability to slow down the game started to show on numerous occasions and it helped us win games.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I think my coaches and teammates would describe me as a player who plays with a chip on their shoulder and just an all around grinder. They respect my voice on and off the field and they know I do the things I do so we can come away with the win on any given Saturday.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When studying film I really try to focus on my eyes and lower body mechanics. As a Quarterback, having your eyes in the correct place is essential to being an efficient and affective passer of the ball. Studying my eye placement can help me understand the progression and read during any given play. Also focusing on using the lower half of your body to throw the ball is so important. Foot position, space between your feet, and knee bend can take your throwing game to the next level and gets rid of relying completely on arm strength. My lower body form is something I look at a lot to ensure it doesn’t go off schedule.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I think I can do a lot of different things than the classic drop back passer. The league is getting smaller and more athletic at the position and this plays to my advantage. I can run and make others miss, while also throwing the ball down the field to keep the chains moving. My play extending ability is also something that makes me a dangerous field general, making the defense go off schedule and then exploiting them for their mistakes. I can throw it with the best of them and then pull it down to showcase a whole new dynamic of my game. In short, I believe I can be a game plan nightmare.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I am lifting/running with a strength and mobility coach about 5 times a week while also going to the field about 5-6 times a week. I always feel like I need to be doing something each day to progress my game and get better. Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I think I can be used in many different ways on the offensive side of the football. My greatest ability is to advance the football forward in any way that is necessary. I can line at QB, RB, WR or any special team position needed. I just want to help win football games wherever I am needed. Then off the field I am a leader by example and enjoy the process of building a culture. I don’t let my ego take over and just want whats best for the program.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I believe the best way to describe my game is labeling me as: a football player. My skill set is wide enough to play at multiple positions on offense. My primary position is QB and I have been playing there since 8 years old, 15 years later and I’m still here. I have the experience and selflessness to be an asset to any locker room on and off the field. All I need is a chance and I will not let anyone down. My work ethic and love for the off-season will always keep me prepared and ready to play every week.