Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Bryan Keys, DL, Minnesota State University-Mankato

Every year, NFL Draft Diamonds brings our readers the best in depth interviews on the internet. We specialize in giving players an opportunity to showcase their talents on our website. We conducted interviews last year with over 300 plus players. We want you to enjoy our interviews, because when these young men are in the league, we will not be surprised, and neither should you. 

What is your name?

Bryan Keys

What is your Height/Weight?

6’1 305

What is your position?

Defensive Tackle/Nose Guard

Where do you play college football?

Minnesota State University-Mankato

How many teams were recruiting you out of high school?

NDSU, MSU-Mankato, St. Cloud, Winona, Concordia St. Paul, Northern Michigan MSU Moorhead, UW-Whitewater

How did you choose your school?

I narrowed it down to MSU-Mankato and St. Cloud. I visited both in the same weekend and When I finished both visits Mankato just felt right and it was the best decision I’ve ever made.

Where are you from?

Germantown, Wi

Who is your role model, and why?

My role model is Ray Lewis. The reason why is because the way he lives and the way he plays is such a hard thing to live by and maintain. I figure if I can atlas accomplish some of that it will make me a better player and person.

Have any scouts met with you yet, and if so what are they saying?

None yet. I’m hoping the opportunity comes soon and I have a strong feeling it will.

Did you play any other sports growing up?

I played basketball and track.

Did you play any other positions in football?

I played a little of Defensive End and everywhere on the offensive line.

At your position, what separates you from others?

My heart is what separates me from others. I don’t care about advantages and I don’t care about statistics for this next play that’s coming up you have to give me everything and you will get everything from me.

When you are breaking down film, what do you look for?

I like to look at their top runs and backfield formation to see what scheme they feel comfortable with. For passing rushing I like to see the tendencies in the O-line. Down and Distance, whether or not they are on the hash, Do they like 4 on or 3 on protection and so forth.

Who was the toughest player you ever faced?

The toughest player I went against was in high school against Shelby Harris. He was a decorated D-End in high school and I was the offensive tackle. We have our separate feelings about the game but it was fun.

If you could compare your play to one player in the NFL who would it be and why?

I’d have to say Marcell Dareus because When its his time he can make plays. He can plug gaps, take on double teams and just be hellish when it comes to QB pressure. Thats what I live for in this game.

What was the biggest obstacle in your life you had to overcome, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest obstacle had to be when I tore my Achilles my sophomore season. A full year of not walking. After the surgery I bought the book Mind Gym and kept watching film. Even though I wasn’t in the game I was somehow apart of it and I believe I’m an even better player now since I did that.

Do you have any pre-game rituals?

I “graze” the field I have to walk the field a certain way in my mind its like marking my territory and I have my “Adrenaline” playlist going the whole time.

What is your biggest strength?

My biggest strength is I’m adaptable. Whatever is needed to be done I can do.

What is your biggest weakness?

My anxiety. Sometimes I’m so nervous and excited to plays i lose control of my breathing and tire myself out faster than what I am actually capable of. I’ve taken a couple initiatives to get better at it this past year and it has gotten better.

If I were a GM and gave you a second to sell yourself, what would you say?

By adding me to the team I will add to the culture of the locker room. I want to do everything I can on and off the field to establish a championship mindset. With that comes hard work, dedication and countless hours of study. If given the chance no matter my status on the team you will receive every ounce of energy and time that I have. I’m committed to this team and the people in this building I want to learn as much as possible and inspire others. 

Who was your favorite player and NFL team growing up?

Favorite player by far is Ray Lewis. No one can replicate what he does.

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would you choose?

God, Ray Lewis and Geno Atkins