Name: Michael Anderson
School: University of West Alabama
Position: LB
Height: 6-0
Weight: 205
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
This was my last season with the Tigers after being there since 2017. I knew this team was different because it was full of promising youth. My goal was to make sure I left the team in a better place and make sure the foundations were still intact. Overall, I believe that was achieved. Watch out for them boys next year! Personally, from the first day of fall camp I said I would be the best linebacker in the Gulf South Conference. I accomplished that.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
In my opinion, my coaches would say that I’m more of an old school type of player. One that simply works hard and is constantly trying to improve. My teammates looked up to me as a leader because of my knowledge and dedication to the program. I constantly pushed them to be better and encouraged them.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
Film is one of the most crucial aspects of football and any sport really. When I watch film, I try to learn every tendency that the opponent has. This can be something simple as how deep is the running back in the Gun? Or splits of the offensive linemen. This helps with predicting what types of plays you could possibly get and what is about to happen next. Staying a step ahead is vital.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What separates me from others in my position is that I have to be smarter and faster than most. I played middle linebacker and was considered undersized. It’s funny because I’ve basically heard that all my life. That never phased me because I bring it every time I’m on the field! I was able to rise as one of the top linebackers in the country this year for Division II.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
My plan is to continue to train at West Alabama and work on techniques that I have struggled with. My size may take me away from the box at the next level so I’m preparing to be able to play different positions such as Safety.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
My strength and ability is that I will always bring good energy everyday. Sometimes players can hit walls during the year where they get in the same routines and the intensity dies. I strive to not let that happen. Typically, you’ll find me with a smile on my face and laughing. That’s off the field as well. I enjoy helping others and doing what I can even if there is no benefit from it. My peers can attest to that.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
My final pitch is that the organization will be getting someone out of high school with 0 stars and a few Division II offers. A player that has always been seem as undersized. One of those stories of someone who came from almost nothing. However, it never stopped me from attempting to be successful. A first generation college student that earned a masters. I worked my way from the bottom of the depth chart to a starter, leader, and captain for my program. I know I am a different breed because I had no other choice to be. You will get the best of me and everything that I have to offer! A leader on and off the field that is loyal to the organization.
