Name: Samuel L Cooper
School: Merrimack
Position: G
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 305
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
My goal and only real goal was to get two winning seasons with my time at Merrimack. We finished 5-5 my Junior Year at Merrimack and I was heated. I made 5-5 my background on my phone. So I worked my tail off to help our program get a winning record in its first season at the FCS level.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
If you ask anyone they would say he’s very intense and works hard at everything. I like to “force it”, I try to push the limits and standards of everything. I take everything seriously. Intense, relentless and a leader. That’s what they would say.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
When I am focusing on my game personally I stress my stance. It all starts from the ground up as a lineman. I want to see if I’m looking explosive on my first two steps first and in the pass game am I staying square. I focus on the tiny things. When it comes to opponents I look at their tendencies, Is the linebacker stacked? What foot does the D-lineman like to push off with. What’s his favorite moves and etc.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I’m extremely dedicated, I’m not someone who talks about this lifestyle, I actually live it. I don’t stop blocking people. I am a player who goes full speed from play one to the last play in the game. My preparation is key. My preparation is something I take pride in. I prepare like no other, I write notes on every opponent like it’s a book. At 100% health, I’m the most physical guard in College football.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
Train, train and more training. Block out the noise, go somewhere very cold and uncomfortable and start training. The goal is to clean up my nutrition, fix the mistakes from film and get in the best shape of my life.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I don’t do dumb things, I don’t get involved with the wrong crowds. I’m very focused on what needs to be done and won’t let anything get in my way. The team that takes a chance on me will be getting a very strong minded, good character athlete that has great physical tools and knows how to work on and off the field.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL or any other pro leagues?
I know how to play football, you’re getting a hard worker who will put in countless hours to be the best. You’re getting a dedicated athlete who will represent your program the best way possible.
