Name: Lakari Benjamin
School: Greenville University
Position: LB
Height: 6-1
Weight: 220
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
For my final collegiate season I set the goals to receive another all-conference award and lead my team to a successful season. I earned an all-conference award for the second year in a row while taking fewer defensive reps than previous years. As a captain on my team, I helped lead us to a 7-3 season.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates would describe me as a relentless player as well as a leader on the field. I always give 100% effort every play no matter what the situation is. I have received multiple team awards for my relentless work ethic.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
While studying film on an opposing team, I focus on personnel, formation and tendencies. This allows me to have an understanding of what an offense is trying to do. I use statistics to see what plays are most likely to be run in certain situations. I watch from the linebacker’s perspective and put up our defensive playbook against their plays.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
The main things that separate me from other prospects are my football IQ, consistency, and versatility. I never enter a game unprepared. I put myself into a position to make plays and consistently do. Being a versatile player, I can fill a hole well on run and I am also comfortable manning someone up in pass coverage.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
For this offseason I am on a strict lifting and sprinting schedule to improve my strength and speed. I also do position specific drills to keep myself ready to play the game. The overall goal is to be stronger, faster and in season shape.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
My largest strength that will appear on and off the field is my leadership ability. On my college team I was in a leadership position for three years. I lead by example and will hold others accountable. I am also a guy that teammates can come to for help about anything.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I will be a great asset to any team both on and off the field. I am a versatile player and always striving to improve myself and those around me. At the end of the day, football is about making plays and I’m the guy to do that.
