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Jared Scott: 2022 Pro Prospect Interview

The Gridiron Crew

Name: Jared Scott
School: Idaho State University
Position: TE
Height: 6’6”
Weight: 240

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

I set very high goals for my final season. I wanted to win a Big Sky Championship, earn first-team all-conference, acquire 50+ catches, and 8 touchdowns, etc. Although I fell short of those, I do feel like the season was successful for myself personally. Not only did I learn and gain experience at a new position, I became comfortable with it. I established myself as a leader on the team, helping our team filled with very young players with little experience grow. And, I made the most of the hand I was dealt. Although my starting QB went down early in the season I was still able to come out catching over 40 receptions, and four TDs. I was also able to earn All-Big Sky Honorable Mention, which I am also very grateful for.

Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?

I think this extra year was great for me, not only increasing my chances of going pro. But also growing as a player overall. It forced me to be a true leader, being an older guy in the locker room that younger guys might look up to. I learned and am still learning the TE position, as I played receiver the four seasons prior. I think it helped me maximize the upside that I have as both a player, and the type of man I am. Also, as a player who never redshirted, I felt the Covid year granted me that extra time in college that a lot of players do ultimately get. I am only 22 years old still despite my 50 plus games of experience.

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

I think that my coaches and teammates would say that I am a go-getter. I have no problem with wanting to be the guy that comes up big for the team in big moments. Such as wanting the ball on 3rd and 4th down and making those plays that can potentially change the momentum of the game in those moments. I like to be that “chain mover” and help keep the ball moving down the field.

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

Especially with my recent transition to tight end, I like to study and watch my blocking. In my opinion blocking is about 70% effort and willingness, and the other 30% technique! I want to make sure my technique is on point, but also that I am not being robotic and being a football player using my athleticism and God-given ability at the same time. Needless to say I also watch my routes, am I moving efficiently to get in and out of breaks, what am I doing to be on the exact same page as the QB. So he can know he can always resort to dumping it down to his TE in the flats, or over the middle in an open window.

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

To be honest, I think my true love for this game is what separates me from a lot of people. A lot do it because they are good at it, or what comes with it. But this has been a dream of mine to play in the NFL since a young kid. So, I work at it as such. Many would back me in saying that this may have not even been the sport I was better at growing up, between football and basketball. But when I made up my mind to make this the sport I was going to play I haven’t looked back. Getting extra work in, catching on the jugs machine, weight room, or even conditioning and making sure I am in the best shape. I have never taken short cuts or been at a point to where I am satisfied where I am at.

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

This off-season I have been staying in the Dallas-area and trained at Atlet Sports. Working on both speed and strength, while also getting position work in as well.

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

Just that grinder mentality that I mentioned a bit of earlier. I care a lot about the sport of football, I truly study the game. I understand that there is so much more for me to obtain knowledge wise, and I am just getting started. I am still smoothening out some sharp edges to my game. I am a very willing blocker, I can catch really well, run really good routes especially for my size. I make contested catches, and really thrive in a role where used as a possession-type receiver. I played multiple roles on special teams as well. Whatever it takes to help the team!

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

I have size and ability that shows up on film. I can run, I can jump. But I believe I also have the intangible abilities as well that truly makes me different. I am a mature player. I learn fast, I work nonstop. I have had to adapt a lot in my career and have transitioned there is no doubt. But I believe I am built for whatever is thrown my way. It does not matter how I get in, whether drafted, undrafted, etc. I will put in the work to be where I want to ultimately be. That is to play in this league, being the NFL, for a long time.

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