Name: Corey Stefanik
School: Holy Cross
Position: SS
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 210
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
My first goal was to win a Patriot League championship and this was accomplished for the first time in school history since 2009. Another goal I had was to be an example for the young guys of what it takes to play college football. For my personal self, I had made the goals of being an All-league player, to make 70 tackles, and to block more kicks than last season.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates would say that I am the type of guy you would want to go into a fight with because you know I will have your back. I am a guy that is willing to give everything I have on every play, no matter what the job or circumstances were in the game. I will play until the end.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
Film study has become a huge part of my game in my college career. When I am watching another team, I like to imagine the calls we would be in during the situations that are on the field, and make my calls out loud. I also look for any indicators like stance, spacing, and alignment that will give me an advantage. When watching myself and working on my game specifically, I like to do it with a critical eye. I want to make sure my alignment, effort, footwork and eyes are correct every play because those are things that I can control completely. I also ask a lot of questions to my teammates/coaches to help me understand how I fit into the scheme and where everyone else will be.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I am not a selfish player and am willing to play anywhere on the field. Last season I aligned in a game at strong safety, outside linebacker, inside linebacker, weak safety, rush end and corner. I also played on every special team. I am very lengthy and bigger than most other safeties while I am also a great open field tackler. I have a high football IQ as I have played this game my entire life and had the privilege of having many great coaches throughout my career.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I was invited and participated in the “Dream Bowl”. My plan is to get bigger, faster and stronger while also working on my footwork and other position specific skills.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Off the field I am very invested in my community by being involved in helping our youth. I have always done community service and this past semester I began a community organizing project to mentor kids in juvenile detention centers. On the field, I am very competitive, versatile and extremely coachable. I have never had any problems on or off the field that would go against what our organization and team stand for.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL or any other pro leagues?
I am a student of the game with a high motor. I am extremely versatile on the field. I am willing to do anything asked of me and will compete for every opportunity.
