Name: Zac Newbell
School: Henderson State
Position: WR/KR
Height: 5’10″
Weight: 182
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
Honestly, I wasn’t given much of an opportunity coming off of an ACL injury from the previous season. However, throughout my career, everyone can see what I can do when I get the ball in my hands. Especially on 3rd down & 4th down when plays need to be made.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
They would say that I am one of the smartest guys on the field and they know that I am going to give them my all, no matter the situation.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
When I study film, I’ll take a look at almost everything. Certain tendencies on base downs & 3rd Downs whether it’s short or long. I take a look at all the coverages that are run by opposing defenses & how each defender executes their role; also, how can we expose that as a team. I also pay attention to the defensive line and see how effective their pass rushing skills are so I’ll know how much time I have to get open on my routes. So like I said, I like to look at a lot of everything. It slows the game down for me.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
Of course the speed is there, but my mental capacity to know what every receiver’s job is on the field is a huge asset to me as well as my teammates & coaches. I often like to know where the running backs role is in the run & passing game so I can understand how it helps defeat coverages or certain angles in need to take when blocking.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I’m training myself at Henderson State. I don’t have much access to things as I would in Houston, but there are a few Strength & Conditioning coaches that I learn a lot from because I am in that same field. They’re all science based professionals, so there are tons of benefits & I’ll learn a lot about myself and my training through this process. I’ve been doing this for about 5 years now.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Again, on the field, my ability to know what all 22 players on the field are doing is my advantage, it slows the game down while my speed takes over. Off the field, I’ve never had any issues socially or in the classroom. I’d like to credit that to my parents. They are both retired military and instilled the discipline in me to be able to responsibly take care of myself, nor sink into peer pressure and be mindful of my actions.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL or any other pro leagues?
I’m probably the biggest underdog out here, but with the right opportunity & fit, I’m a big play just waiting to happen. It’s on the tape.
