Name: Dean Sarris
School: Baldwin Wallace University/ University of Arkansas Pine Bluff (this past year) 
Position: K/P 
Height: 6-0
Weight: 175

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

I set a goal early in the season to just focus on me and make sure my team and staff knew that I was the guy they needed on the field. Day in and day out I brought everything I had to the table. I think It was very crucial in helping me elevate my practice play, but also elevating my level of play in general.

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

I think that they would say I’m relentless. Over my career there were a lot of moments where I was set back or not performing the way I wanted to but I always worked hard and did anything I could to get better and get to the level I wanted to be playing at. More for my teammates than myself, I know those guys count on me which is why I work so hard day in and day out. Countless hours of technique work, reps, studying other kickers, working the mental game, etc all played a huge role in getting myself into the position I am right now.

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

I really focus on the smallest details. Kickers/Punters and Long-Snappers know details matter the most. When I watch a film I start by watching my steps, making sure they are the same every single time and making sure I’m in line with my target. I then study each step of the approach making sure that is the exact same every time, making sure I’m on my toes on my jab and drive step then focusing on where my plant foot is at as I’m getting ready to make contact. At that contact point I should be at lock out, and one of the most important parts of studying film is the contact point on the ball and how my foot is placed. Finally, I have to make sure my swing is up and my hips/body are finishing toward the target. All in all, if any of these are off by even a quarter inch it could throw off a bunch of things which is why it is so important to focus on being consistent in those small details.

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

My fast leg and understanding of the mental game. I feel that I have a faster leg then most which allows me to generate a lot of height/power in my kicks whether it’s field goals, kickoffs or punts. I also feel that my understanding of the mental game is more advanced than most which allows me to excel in those pressure moments. By understanding the mental game meaning that I am always calm and focused, I hardly ever show emotion based on the result and really understand my body knowing how to calm myself down and get focused prior to a kick or knowing how to bounce back off a bad kick and make the next.

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

I just recently competed in the Podyum Bowl and Dream Bowl this past few weeks. I have a pretty rigorous workout schedule to keep me in shape for any opportunities. Also, in terms of field work, I plan to really focus on fine tuning those details I spoke about previously. Off-seasons for specialists are times to make sure all your details are in check. Outside of training I am planning on getting an opportunity or two at a pro-day around my hometown area. I’m also hoping that I get some tryouts as well in regards to the CFL/NFL/UFL.

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

My ability to listen and push my teammates to be a better version of them. I’ve been in interviews in the past where I’m asked this question and I always have the same answer. Kickers (Specialist in general), have this unspoken duty of being like a team psychiatrist. By that I mean since we are often on the sideline we see and hear everything so a lot of guys come to us with frustrations and things of that nature. Over the years I’ve learned to align my responses with my teammates to the team goal or team motto of that year. I always give encouragement to those guys. Over the years I can always find out what kind of player most of my teammates are throughout the first week of lifting/ field work. The key though like I stated above is to give those guys encouragement so by pushing these guys who might be frustrated with playing time, situations, etc. it will raise the level of practice and eventually help move toward wins in games. I think on and off the field that’s a huge asset to not only the team but also helping the staff/organization as well.

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

I’m a skilled and dedicated kicker, I bring accuracy, consistency, and a proven track record of delivering when it counts most. With a powerful leg and the ability to handle pressure situations, I feel that I can contribute to the team’s success by doing my job at the highest level. My commitment to improvement, discipline, and teamwork aligns with the values and morals of many NFL teams. I’m always ready to make every kick count and be an asset to your team’s journey.