Name: Sante D. Parker Jr
School: University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
Position: DE
Height: 6-1
Weight: 250
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
Well starting the season out as a team captain (and the only captain on defense) my number one goal this previous season was to be a great leader. I wanted to set an example for the young players and maintain the standard that our program holds in being one of the many great defenses in division 3 football, and I felt as though I had ended the season doing just that despite our shortcoming in the semi-finals. My other goal was to also be a leading pass-rusher for our defense. I wanted to be to an absolute menace on the field against a passing offense as my skills in holding a run towards my side of the field was already set in stone. In the end, teams began to think twice before running to my side, and if they did, it would be either a TFL or a no gain run. I also ended up finishing the season as a First-Team All-Conference and All-Region Defensive Player of the Year. Ending my 14 game season as an All-American with 9.5 sacks and a good amount of QB hurries, pass break-ups, and QB hits. Overall, I achieved my goals throughout this last season of mine.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates would say that I am an extremely selfless athelte with lots of great character and devotion. They’d consider me the type of person to never back down from my ambitions and may even consider me fearless. They would also talk of my smarts and intellect both on and off the feild and may even boast of my feats of strength and tenacity (both physically and mentally).
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When I study film, I study the linemen first. I like to understand the opponent that will be lined up in front of me. I look for stances, alignments, formations, and even small habits that my opponents will make in order to break-down each play and pattern out my attack plan. As a D-linemen it’s important to know what the next play will be the moment the hands are in the ground. My thorough study helps me get an edge on my opponents, as it helps me determine my stance, get-off, and alignment that will help me dominate in each play.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What separates me from the rest of the heard I’d say is my heart and tenacity. I’m the type of athlete that doesn’t break easily. No challenge or hardship will ever keep my from achieving my goals and dreams both on and off the field. My devotion to the game of football and the brothers that I play for are like any other, and my leadership skills shall remain present in everything that I do.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
Currently I am self training to maintain my strength and excersie a focus towards my speed and agility. In the near future, I look to having a trainer to also improve my workout schedule and provide extensive learning/training towards my position as well.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
What I bring both on and off the field are my physical strengths, my intellect, and my savviness. On the field I can affect the game with my dominance against my opponent and provide the pressure that is needed for my team. Off the field, my Intellect and football savviness can help lead any team through both learning and by example. Communication is my game, and being able to teach one another and provide advice throughout the game is what had made my program’s D-line so special in that we are all one mind.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
My final pitch is that, If you are looking for a hard-working dedicated athlete, one that doesn’t faulter under adversity, and one with a great heart and unselfishness, then I’m your guy. I take pride in my ability to affect the game against any opposing offense as a dominate pass rusher and run stopper, and I always look forward to new challenges and leadership opportunities. I’m more than happy to apart of any time that I would consider my family.
