Name: Cole Hissong
School: The College of Wooster
Position: TE
Height: 6-2
Weight: 225

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

Coming off of a career season as a 2nd Team All-American, I looked to repeat as an AA selection and help my team win a conference championship. Unfortunately, we came up short in the NCAC and I did not repeat as an All-American. However, we finished at 6-4, making this the best three-season stretch for Wooster Football since 2006 and I was fortunate enough to be selected to a third All-Conference team and third All-Region team, the most Regional selections for any player in Wooster history.

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

My teammates and coaches would say that I lead by example through effort and accountability. I pride myself on being the hardest worker on the field and being a player/teammate that can be relied on mentally and physically. Additionally, they would describe me as a “we before me” player. As a two-year captain, I have the ability to hold my teammates accountable when necessary, but also pick them up when they need it.

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

Aside from coverage cues, the main focus when I watch film is to study the physical tendencies of the players I will be matched up against that week. I try to recognize their technique based on alignment/coverage and work on releases/mid-route collision avoidance that best counter the DB/LB’s technique.

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

I believe my football IQ and receiving intangibles separate me from other Tight End prospects. I believe that my ability to adjust as the game goes on and make recognitions of coverage tendencies or schemes in the front seven allows me excel more as the game progresses. Additionally, I see myself as a true dual-threat TE in the pass game and run game, with the ability to make plays against DBs as well as block efficiently on the interior and perimeter.

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

I plan to stay in Wooster and train with a few other college football players from my hometown, and collaborate with Wooster’s Head S&C Coach, Josh Mace.

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

Physically, I bring a lot to the table. I am extremely versatile in the run and the pass game. I can gain tough yards with my strength and power and possess big play capability. Mentally, I possess exceptional tactical knowledge of the game and understand whole offensive concepts and schemes. I also possess the mental toughness and composure that it takes to play such an emotional game. When myself or my team faces adversity, I want to be the person my teammates look to to get us back on track. Finally, and I believe this to be the most important for any football player, I just love playing the game. I do it because I enjoy it, and I love everything that comes with it.

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

Stats and film can show a lot physically, but I believe that my leadership capabilities and room for growth as an athlete will show that my ceiling is far from being reached. I am thankful for any opportunity that is given to me.