Name: Caleb Kinlaw
School: South Carolina
Position: RB
Height: 5’10″
Weight: 208
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
Coming off a torn ACL, my main goal was just to come back healthy and be able to contribute to the team. I wanted to get back to playing as if I never tore it.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
They would all say that I’m relentless and selfless. I persevere through anything thrown at me. They would say that I’m humble and I’m dependable. The players would consider me to be an old head and some look at me as a mentor.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
When studying myself, I try to pin point my strengths and weaknesses and what I would do to stop myself if I was a defense. I figure out the defensive scheme and top blitzes/coverages. I look at things like what kind of angles the linebackers and secondary take in open field. I look at how I need to block or run routes vs certain players based on their tendencies. Regardless of my playing time, I tried to prepare as if I was starting so that I was always ready and prepared no matter what.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
My knowledge of the game, the way I retain information and my willingness to do the thankless jobs that help the team. I’m dependable and always know what to do. Also, I take pride in my ability to play special teams and pass protect. I know I can run and catch well, but I especially embrace those roles.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I’ve been training with a few other prospects at USC’s facility with the assistant strength coach. As far as preparation I just try to watch as NFL film as possible from multiple perspectives.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
On the field I bring a genuine hunger and passion for the game. I’m a team first player and I do whatever it takes to win. I’m coachable and compliant, so it’s easy to have me on a team. I’m physical, slippery and I take a lotta pride in pass protection and special teams. Off the field, I’m a great teammate. I’m always trying to learn and get better. I try to be infectious in a positive manner.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL or any other pro leagues?
I’m a guy that’s always had talent and just didn’t get a fair shot. I always do my job and put the team first. I’ve persevered through a lot on and off the field without ever being a distraction to my team, I’m adaptable and can take on any role needed. I push through whatever to win. All of my former teammates and coaches would have nothing but positive things to say about me. I love football and given the chance, I’ll be a great asset. I’m appreciative of the opportunity to just be able to play the game.