Name: Cannon Griner
School: University of Wisconsin-Stout
Position: S
Height: 6-1
Weight: 210
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
I set a goal of making the playoffs, having 100 tackles and over 5 turnovers created. I knew going into the season teams had been avoiding passing my way so I really emphasized creating fumbles throughout the offseason.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My team would say I am ultra-competitive, loyal & love the game of football. I am a leader that can be looked at as another coach due to my knowledge of the scheme and the game of football. I am also guy who will always put the team 1st & do everything in my power to win.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When watching film on myself I pay close attention to my leverage when making a tackle or coming down on the ball. I have found this is the #1 thing that leads someone to be a good or a great player on the defensive side of the ball. You have to be able to finish plays whether it is a tackle or breaking on a pass. Leverage is key. I also look at things I can improve on in the future and emphasize in practice to make sure I am constantly fixing what I’ve done wrong. These things could be getting depth in a deep zone, coming out of my read peddles too fast or slow, looking at the WR too much in Zone or the QB too long in man. As far as watching film on other teams I break down all sorts of things. The way certain players run routes ie breaking on this step for this route, stemming a certain way, starting with a flipped stance, a high release etc. I also look to see how the team as a whole runs routes, is the team taught to run them this way or is that just how he specifically does it? I look for run/pass cues out of everyone, does QB wipe a towel on pass, does a olineman look at the ground when he pulls, does a WR mess with his gloves on pass etc. How does the RB run the ball, is he a guy that’s going to put his head down, spin, jump, how fast is he, and how is his ball security? I look at the QB does he like a certain guy more than everyone else, what does he like to throw, what balls can he get there, does he scramble well, how far is the deepest he can throw, does he like to run the ball? I also look for a QB tagging a WR if we can know what he is tagging that’s a winning play for us. Last but maybe most importantly I look at the what the coach calls. The Coach is the guy calling the plays so I like to try to dive in his head. Is he aggressive, conservative? Will he take his shots 1&10, 2&short. What plays does he like in the red zone, on 3rd & 4th downs what is his favorite plays where is the line on 2nd, 3rd & 4th down where he drops the run?
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
My brain, passion and versatility. I am a very smart player with experience at a bunch of different positions. I can play in the box, a deep zone or man up. I have the physical ability and the brains to learn multiple positions.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I have already signed to the Innsbruck, Raiders and my offseason training plan is lifting, and running. Really diving into what as a player I can improve on before the season starts this Spring!
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I am a large safety that can come down and be a force in the run, I’m an excellent tackler and play the ball in the air well. I am a natural leader who loves the process of working. Everything in me loves this game and I like to think others feel that and it resonates with my team.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
My dedication and love for football is second to none, always pushing myself to excel both on and off the field. I pride myself on my ability to strategize and anticipate plays, always staying one step ahead. I believe in fostering a positive team environment, leading by example and uplifting my teammates. If you’re seeking a committed, strategic, and team-oriented player, I am confident that I would be a valuable addition to your team.
