Name: Elijah Reed
School: Colorado State University – Pueblo
Position: OT/OL
Height: 6-5
Weight: 310

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

Last year we went 6-5 and that is not our standard at CSU-Pueblo. I wanted to come back and right some wrongs from last year This year we went 8-4 and made it to the first round of the playoffs.

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

I can’t speak for my peers, but I think they would describe me as a leader and competitor. I love competing, that drive and passion is how I was able to start in 49 games in my collegiate career. Playing young allowed me to mature faster and throughout the years I molded in to a leader that I think my teammates and coaches appreciated.

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

I am always focusing on my technique. As an offensive lineman, you’ll come to understand that what sets you apart from your opponent is your technique. While watching film, I focus on my footwork, body posture, hand placement and assignments. I also like breaking down certain players that I am going against to find tendencies that I can use against them to elevate my game. This year I worked on reading the defense and more specifically reading safeties and where they are alligned to see where pressure is going to be coming from.

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

My football IQ, athletic ability and doing my job. I watch a lot of film which allows me to understand and see a lot more things than most players. I see the game way different than most, and that not only helps me to do my job but it makes my teammates jobs easier as well. I can’t focus on things that are not in my control, however I can control my attitude and effort, of which, I give it my all to do my job. I can move people off the line of scrimmage, pass set effectively and consistently, and when I’m out in space, I can run and attack defenders.

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

I am training out in Colorado. My main focus in training is not only to have great pro day numbers, but to make a team and stay on it. I feel that my training is preparing me for more than just getting there, I am training to stay on a team. I am focusing on all pro day workouts along with technique/position work.

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

My will to compete. As I mentioned before, I love to compete. I like being in situations that are difficult because it allows me to show what I am capable of. My ability to lead from not only my words but my actions allows me to be a great teammate but an even better man outside of the game.

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

I am ready to compete. I am ready to work. I am dedicated, a hard worker, and someone that you can rely on, to do their job. Handling adversity is my specialty and for whatever is thrown at me or comes my way, I can promise you that I will put my head down and go to work.