Name: Paul Fay
School: Wheaton College
Position: OL
Height: 6-3
Weight: 325
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
My primary goal for this season was to have my best year as an individual with no sacks allowed and no penalties and help our team have a successful year. While I didn’t allow any sacks I did have a penalty. Beyond that, I am playing the best football of my life and we finished the season 10-2 with a playoff appearance.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I believe my coaches and teammates would describe me as driven and hardworking with a desire to perform at my best and help others become their best. I also believe my coaches and teammates would say I have a love for the game and play with passion. I also believe my Coach would say I am a good leader for the team and the offensive line unit.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When I watch film of myself I look to improve my game. To do this I begin by looking at my technique with feet, hand placement, and pad level. When scouting opponents I like to look at their tendencies and tells. I like to watch opponent film with situational awareness to help me better understand my opponent’s tendencies as an individual and a defensive unit.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I think one thing that separates me is my internal motivation. I have spent the past 4 summers training my garage with no climate control and have gotten stronger and faster each off-season while working manual labor jobs at farms. I have an obsession for the game of football and a desire to continue to improve at every opportunity. I am motivated to become my best football player because I love the game and as a Christian I believe that it is an area to give my all and glorify Christ.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
My current plan is to prepare for the FCS Bowl and compete in that. After the FCS bowl I am currently weighing different opportunities to see what will be best for my development and career going forward.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I bring a physicality and grit to the offensive line as I believe that is the way the position is meant to be played. I seek to impose my will in both run and pass protection and am always actively looking forwork if not engaged in a block. Off the field I bring a relational presence to the team as a guy who loves to spend time with and get to know those around him and values relationships.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
There are always a few hidden gems every year and I believe I am that and I just want an opportunity to compete so I can show the level of football I am capable of playing. Lastly, I love the game of football and everything it entails: competition, physicality, grit, and being a part of a team.