Name: Clay Schueffner
School: Winona State University
Position: LB
Height: 6-2
Weight: 232
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
This year I set the goal of becoming a three-time First-Team All-Conference player, which I accomplished. I wanted to be a two-time Harlon Hill Trophy Nominee which I also was able to accomplish. I lastly wanted to become a two-time All-American which I am not sure I have accomplished yet because those awards have not come out yet.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
Coaches and players would say I’m a guy who gives great effort and understands the game of football very well. My leadership capabilities have shown at Winona State since the minute I walked in the door. I have acquired a lot of respect from my teammates and coaches because of my willingness to do whatever it takes to help my team succeed.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
One thing that I want to improve on in my game is always being more efficient in my movements. This comes with being great in my pad level and having a good feel for what route concepts we’re getting or where receivers are around me when I am at the top of my drop.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What separates me from other pro aspects at my position is my feel for the game, I feel through film study and general football knowledge I understand how teams will attack us and what type of offense plays we will be getting, based on the type of team we are playing. Another aspect that I feel I do very well is showing great effort and being locked into the team’s goals which helps me be a better player and leader for others to follow. I am constantly trying to find ways to improve not only on the field but off the field as well.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I plan on training at Next Level Performance in Waukesha, Wisconsin. I have known Brad Arnett for around five years now and I have seen great improvements in my strength and football movements since I started going to him. I have only been able to go to him in short periods of time so I am looking forward to see what he can do with me in a longer period of time.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
The strengths and abilities I can bring to a team are that I am a high-effort guy who is reliable to do their 1/11th on the field not only on the defensive side of the ball but, also in special teams. I am a guy who is constantly trying to improve and find ways to get better and doing whatever it takes to do so. I know that my teammates are counting on me to always be at my best and I want them to know that they will be getting my best attitude and effort.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I understand that I am a small school player but being from a small school has given me opportunities to play multiple spots on the field at a time whether that is on defense or special teams. I feel like my effort, feeling for the game, and willingness to do whatever it takes to help the team succeed is something that sticks out about me. I am never satisfied with where I am at in my career, I am always trying to find ways to constantly improve my craft because I know it is what is necessary if I want to play at the next level which is something I have always wanted.
