Name: Stephen Hillis
School: University of South Dakota
Position: LB
Height: 6-1
Weight: 230
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
Our Goal was to win a conference and national championship. We finished second in our conference to South Dakota State and lost in the quarterfinals of the playoffs.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My teammates and coaches would describe me as disciplined and hard working.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When watching film I look at both the technical things I’m doing such as block destruction technique angles to the ball carrier etc. and schematically what the other team is doing- what run plays they’re running and route concepts etc.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What separates me is both my athleticism and the mental side of the game. No one is going to outwork or outdiscipline me.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I am training for pro day at my school, USD with our strength coach, Clete McCleod.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I am able to process game plans and learn quickly and off the field I’m a great locker room guy.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I would say that pro teams should give me a chance because I will do all the little things right and do everything possible to make an impact.
