Name: Collin Heard
School: Merrimack College
Position: CB/S
Height: 5-10
Weight: 182
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
I wanted to impact my team in the best way possible rather that was at free safety, nickel, or in the box. And I helped contribute to getting my team to a conference championship game.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates would say that I’m hard working and driven player. I faced controversy twice while at Merrimack. Once dislocating my right elbow which ended my spring season and tearing my hamstring during camp. However, I was able to overcome these things and still make an impact on the success of my team.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When watching film I focus on the reps where I made a mistake or got bested to see what I did wrong so those things don’t happen again. However, while watching opponent film I study the receivers releases, route running ability, speed, and physicality. Along with that, I study the quarterbacks drops and release speed. This allows me to have a clear evaluation on how fast the ball is getting out and how much time I have to read the qb in my 3 step and get eyes back on the man to make a play.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I believe my resilience separates me. This is because I started my career off hot by being a true freshman on Colgate Universities 2018 team whom went undefeated in conference and delivered 5 shutouts on the season, all while going to the quarter finals in playoffs. Following, my sophomore season in 2019 I was named all conference by leading my team in interceptions with 3 and having 49 tackles. Covid (2020). Lastly, 2021 I led my team in interceptions again, was named captain, and named all conference. Following my senior season I spent a short stent at Southern Illinois Univeristy where I saw very little play time due to recovering from ankle surgery, which then led me to redshirting that season. I then found a home a Merrimack where I faced more injury but still was able to make an impact. So with that being said I didn’t end my career the best but i kept fighting to prove that I am a great player and still am.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I am currently training with impact sports performance in Michigan.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Strengths and abilities I will bring to a team consist of: twitch while guarding defender in and out of breaks, ball skills, and aggression when tackling or taking on blockers.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I’m going to be successful regardless of my situation because I’m going to put the work in to do so.
