Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Austin Dotson, WR, Sacramento State

NFL Draft Diamonds Spotlight Interview: Austin Dotson, WR, Sacramento State

Lacking only in statistics, not in ability, Austin Dotson displays such ability on tape that is makes you wonder why his opportunities were so limited in college. Dotson wants to shot to play pro ball, and one thing is for sure- he can run precise routes. Here is Austin’s prospect interview.

Where any teams recruiting you out of High school?
In High-school, I not only did football but I ran track, I had schools recruiting me for track but as far as football No. I didn’t have much experience.

How did you come to make your college decision?
After realizing that my schooling would be paid for 100% and I would have a chance to play for a Division 1 program not to mention I would be staying in California. I couldn’t say no. I became impatient and my confidence began to shed. Sacramento State was the only Division 1 school to take a chance on me besides Morgan State.

Where are you training, and what are your goals for pro day/combines?
As of right now I’m training at West Coast Sports & Fitness in Carson. I’ll be there until the 26th of January until I go back to school. My goals are
40: 4.38-4.41
Shuttle: 4.0-4.1
Bench: 15+
Vertical: 36
L Cone: anything under 7
BJ: 9″10

Have any scouts met with you, and if so what are they saying?
None as of yet.

At your position, what separates you from the others?
My passion for the game. The ability to recognize my flaws. I am a very good route runner, I take pride in perfecting my craft. Not only that but my nack for the ball. No matter where the ball is, high, low I will go get it. I don’t have a problem diving or giving up my body to make a catch.

Tell us what you look for when breaking down film?
I look the defender’s tendencies. I look for their strengths and weaknesses, are they better in zone or in man. Is his back pedal smooth, how does he get out of breaks. How are his hips. Then I look for overall coverage, what coverage does the team utilize the most. Who’s the anchor on the defense, who’s their best cover player. Do they tackle well. Things like that.

Who was the toughest player you have ever faced?
Joselio Hanson, Former Eagle, Former Raider. Showed me coverage from a NFL Perspective.

If you could compare your play to one person in the NFL who would it be?
Steve Smith no doubt. His passion for the game, he plays with that chip on his shoulder. 5’9 but plays 6’4.

What was the biggest obstacle in your life you had to overcome, and how did you overcome it? Being told I wasn’t good enough to play. I gave up going to the Navy to play ball and to be told I wasn’t good enough hurt. I worked hard and spoke to another school. Ended up starting my Freshman and Sophomore year of JC.

What system fits your style of play the best?
The Spread, something that allows me to run routes freely. I just want to be used.

What is your biggest strength?
My speed, I am able to run by defenders and take the top off a defense.

What is your biggest weakness?
I don’t really have a big weakness but there are things that I can improve on such as reading coverage.

If I were a GM and gave you a minute to sell yourself, what would you say?
I am a team player with a high motor. Will give 110% effort every play, every snap. Will practice how I play. Able to take constructive criticism, always looking for a way to get better. I Want it more than I need it. I need it more than I want it.

Growing up, who was your role model?
My Mother. She instilled in me the fight, the attitude to never give up on your dreams.

Who was your favorite team and player in the NFL and why?
The Philadelphia Eagles and Steve Smith. Eagles, I’ve liked them since 2000. So 14 years. I’ve liked them because of The game NFL blitz 2000. First it was jets because of the color, then Lions, then I didn’t want to switch anymore so I stuck with the eagles ever since. Steve Smith because he represents receivers 5’9 and under, gives us hope. I’m 5’9 myself.

If you were to have dinner with three people dead or alive who would it be?
My grandmother Ida Fey Dotson, young Muhammad Ali, Steve Smith.

What would you buy with your first NFL paycheck?
Depends on how much it is. I would most likely save majority of it. Never know what might happen. I’m not the type to splurge.