Name: Rodney Carroll
College: Fairmont State
Position: Offensive Tackle
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 305
Q: If you could describe your style of play in 3 words, what would they be?
Rodney: Finesse, Tough, Strong.
Q: How are you going to train/prepare this offseason in preparation for the draft or other pro opportunities?
Rodney: Im training at Fairmont State with the strength coach.
Q: If you could compare yourself to one current or former NFL player who would it be and why?
Rodney: I would compare myself to Joe Thomas, OT from the Cleveland Browns. Joe Thomas is what I like to call a “finesse” tackle. He uses his great footwork and hand placement to his advantage, but can also come downhill on a 3 technique on a run play. When I play I try to do the same. I always watch film on JT and it teaches me a lot.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on or look for?
Rodney: When studying film, I focus on the DE across from me. I learn his favorite moves, his tendencies and their DL stunts. Then I study myself. I see what I could do to make myself better as far as my pad level, hand placement, and anything else to become an elite offensive lineman.
Q: What separates you from other players at your position?
Rodney: I think what separates me most from other OTs is my footwork. I have great footwork that I work on a lot. A lot of my closest friends are DBs and I always got stuck doing cone drills with them, but it definitely paid off. I also think what separates me from other OTs is my passion. I have a passion for my position and it brings something out of me that I cant explain. To be an offensive lineman, you have to really love the game of football. We don’t score touchdowns, we don’t catch the ball, we don’t have any snaps. It’s all guts, no glory.
Q: What kind of abilities would you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Rodney: I would bring hard work and leadership to any organization. Effort and hard work are the only 2 things that someone can control in their life and they are abilities that I will bring to any organization. I am also a natural in leadership. Being a leader is a role that has always been placed on me and I fulfill it pretty well.
Q: What is your final pitch/sell to NFL and other pro league scouts?
Rodney: I’ve been playing football since I was 4 years old. I’ve been dreaming about my future all my life. All I need is one chance and I promise I will not let you down! I will give you my all in anything that you ask of me.
