Name: Nathaniel Black
School: Faulkner University
Position: Safety/Linebacker
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 220
Q: What were some of your goals heading into your final collegiate season?
One of my goals I had going into my final collegiate season was not to rely so much on my athleticism and rely more on my brain to make plays for me. The game is played between the ears and being a cerebral player, I knew it would help me immensely. Secondly, being open and willing to do whatever it takes to help my team get the win.
Q: If you could describe your style of play in 3 words, what would they be?
Fast, Fearless, and Intelligent.
Q: How will you train and prepare this offseason for the draft or other pro opportunities?
At the moment, I’m training really hard with a family friend until I save up the money to attend a great training facility.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on or look for?
When I study film, I like to work from most obvious to least obvious. For example: formations, personnel, players splits, plays ran based on down and distance, the offensive most impactful players, etc. Then you go to the least obvious such as: player tendencies, hand signals players give each other to switch their assignments, and so forth.
Q: What separates you from the other players at your position?
My ability to change direction for my size, my speed, I’m an intelligent football player, but what I have the most pride about is my ability to adapt to any situation and position I’m put in. Don’t put me in a box, I’m not one dimensional, I’m very versatile and multifaceted.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Strengths and abilities that’s I bring to a team that will stand out on the field is my leadership and passion for the game. I demand greatness out of myself first when it comes to performing both on the practice field and in games, before I demand it out of my teammates. I also feel the same applies to my character off the field. I try to make sure I respect everybody and I make sure that I have my things in order before I try to correct or advise others.
Q: What is your final pitch or sell to NFL and other pro league scouts?
The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing. I’m coming in with an empty slate ready for coaching. I have a chip on my shoulder and I am willing to get better and prove myself everyday. No matter what the assignment or situation, YOU WILL GET MY MAXIMUM EFFORT! I’m a special teams player and I play all four phases of special teams. Like I stated before, don’t put me in a box, I’m very versatile and chameleon like, I can blend in and adapt to just about any situation given. Give me a shot and you will see.
