Name: David Curl
School: Olivet College
Position: DT
Height: 6-3
Weight: 295
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
Other than team goals like winning a championship. Some of my goals I set for myself this past season included breaking into the Top 10 all-time sacks and TFL’s record holder for Olivet College. After a great season in 2022 I was able to complete my goal by coming in 10th for all time TFL’s and 8th for all time sacks in Olivet history. One of my proudest career moments was to be able to complete this goal and have my name in the record book with some of the greatest that ever played at Olivet is a blessing. Other goals I set for myself was to expand my knowledge about the game learning different defensive schemes, coverages, and fronts which made me an overall better player.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I believe my coaches would say I am passionate about the game, competitive, determined, physical, a leader, and a hard worker. My teammates would probably say I’m a great guy with a more of lead by example type leadership who has a great character as well as a solid all-around player who leads on the defensive line.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
While I watch film I always look for habits or tendencies. Humans are creatures of habit we tend to repeat things without even knowing it or on purpose depending on the situation. When I study my opponents, I look for things like how a offensive lineman punches with his hands, splits between lineman, stances, and run & pass block habits. Picking up on the little things gives me the advantage to beat my opponent and helps me read offenses which helps me make plays.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I believe that my knowledge and attention to detail when playing defensive line separates me from others at my position. Not only am I able to pick up on offensive blocking schemes but I can play any technique or gap on the inside because of my knowledge about the game and my athletic ability. I have the ability to be able to switch up my moves and playing style either to run or pass at any moment during games. Being able to play any technique at defensive tackle is also helpful for a team because if the team needs me, I can play any gap and it gives the coaches more options to run plays and schemes.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I plan to train and prepare as much as I can in the offseason while at Olivet College so I’m able to develop and improve my strength, talent, quickness, and overall athletic ability so I can play at my best level.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I would say physically my best strength is my size, power, and my ability to make plays in the back field. I have a high football IQ and I am able to get push back on plays and be a tank on the D line for my team. I believe watching my film I am an all-around defensive tackle. My biggest strength is recognizing run plays/blocks. I am able to recognize double teams and down blocks while being able to make transitions from run to pass. Off the field I believe my success comes from my leadership and mental strength. I am a hard worker who leads by example. I am determined to be the best me and I never give up on my goals. I am determined to be the best I can be as a player and person. I am a man of God who tries to lead by example by being a good person and doing the little things right.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
Take a chance on me! We all love or have some passion for football but what separates me from other prospects that play defensive tackle is my skills, ability, drive, and determination. I love to compete to be the best and am willing to do anything it takes to prove that I can add value to any pro-organization with my playing abilities, leadership, and knowledge about the game. I believe I can fit into any defensive scheme and make plays. I can be that power interior linemen that every team is looking to add to their defensive line.
