Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Cole Manhart, OT, Nebraska-Kearney
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What is your name?
Cole Manhart
Where do you play college football?
The University of Nebraska at Kearney
How many teams were recruiting you out of high school?
Out of high school A few D1 schools offered me preferred walk-ons including CSU and Kansas State. I was also recruited by D2 schools from the nation.
How did you choose your school?
I chose the University of Nebraska at Kearney because I loved the guys who hosted me here, and I felt that the coaching staff was being upfront and honest with me from the very beginning, and I would have a great opportunity to play a lot of football at this school.
Where are you from?
I am from Highlands Ranch, Colorado
Who is your role model, and why?
My mom and dad are my role models, because they taught me right from wrong, how to have a hard work ethic, and never give up on your dreams.
Have any scouts met with you yet, and if so what are they saying?
I’ve met with scouts from all 32 NFL teams. They like the aggressiveness with which I play the game, and my ability to move defenders in the run game.
Did you play any other sports growing up?
I wrestled and played lacrosse in high school.
Did you play any other positions in football?
Along with Left and Right Tackle I have played H-Back, and both guard positions.
At your position, what separates you from others?
I think my aggressiveness, footwork, ability to lock on to defenders and utilize pad level in the run game is what separates me from others.
When you are breaking down film, what do you look for?
When breaking down film I look for any advantages I can use to gain an upper hand on my opponent. I look at starting formations, to the alignment of the defensive linemen’s stances, tendencies of blitzing linebackers, and finally the depth of safeties and cornerbacks.
Who was the toughest player you ever faced?
The toughest player I have played against is Matt Longacre from North West Missouri State.
If you could compare your play to one player in the NFL who would it be and why?
I would compare myself to Joe Staley. Joe Staley is a great technician and student of the game and I enjoy watching him play and trying to imitate his style.
What was the biggest obstacle in your life you had to overcome, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle I have had to overcome is the passing of my father in high school. My dad was my best friend and it was an extremely difficult time in my life. I had a very supportive family to work through the loss together.
Do you have any pre-game rituals?
My pre-game ritual for the last 5 years is eating breakfast with my fellow linemen the morning before home games.
What is your biggest strength?
My biggest strength is my ability to run block and move defenders.
What is your biggest weakness?
My biggest weakness is getting separation on my pass protection.
If I were a GM and gave you a second to sell yourself, what would you say?
I would say that I am a hardnosed football player with a hard work ethic who plays the game with intensity and physicality on every snap, and a willingness to improve every day. If your organization gives me the opportunity I will bring these qualities to your team day in and day out.
Who was your favorite player and NFL team growing up?
My favorite players growing up were Tom Nalen and Matt Lepsis of the Denver Broncos.
If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would you choose?
I would have dinner with my father, grandfather, and former Navy Seal and American Sniper author Chris Kyle.
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