Name: TyJuan Garbutt
School: Virginia Tech
Position: DE/OLB
Height: 6-2
Weight: 265

Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season? 

I set out to be a team leader on and off the field. I also wanted to be a rock for the incoming coaching staff; someone that they could depend on every day. Although we didn’t win as many games as we all hoped, I was proud of how our defense showed up. Personally, I was proud to lead my team in both sacks and tackles for loss, and ended up ranking in the top three in the entire ACC per game played. I set a goal to be an awesome teammate, and felt like I achieved that.

Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?

Tenacious, trustworthy, and very self motivated. Someone that takes pride in their individual contributions, but is always willing to sacrifice for the good of the team first and foremost. Tough, willing to play through adversity. Consistent and passionate about the game of football.

Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?

Looking forward, laser focus on the upcoming matchups and the strengths and weaknesses of the opponent. Tendencies, places where I can exploit even subtle habits. When looking back, I study both successes and plays where I could have done more. Try to learn from every single play and become sharper, better, and more effective. Studying is a very critical part of both preparation as well as learning.

Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position? 

I have a motor and a desire that I believe is unmatched. I also am instinctive and can react quickly.  I am explosive off the line of scrimmage, and use my speed to be disruptive. I am also a student of the game as it is my true passion, I am prepared for anything, and will outwork my peers. All of that in one package is unique in my opinion.

Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?

I spent three months away from home in Tampa Florida working with Cooper sports performance. During that time, I was able to put on 15 pounds of muscle, without losing my quickness. I also had the opportunity to work out with a former NFL edge rusher continuously, which helped sharpen and add to my outside and inside rush moves.

Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?

A relentless commitment to excellence, both on the field and in the community. I will improve every day to become the best. I will be an incredible teammate, and someone who will emerge as a role model in effort, production, and impact. I am a man of character in all that I do, yet am also a relentless warrior in how I play the game that I love. I simply will not be outworked under any circumstances.

Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?

I am grateful and humbled to be in the position that I am in, yet I feel like I am just getting started. This game is my passion, and I am absolutely committed to making a mark. This has been my dream since I was a young boy, and I am incredibly determined to succeed. Wherever I end up, I will ensure that the people who bet on me will benefit beyond even their expectations.