2022 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Samad Davila, RB/WR, American International College

• Name: Samad Davila
• Position: RB/WR
• College: American International College 
• Height: 5’11”
• Weight: 205 lbs
• Twitter: @SDavila_

1. What are your favorite things about playing football for American International College?

Being able to fulfill my dream since a child to play college ball & pursue a career in the NFL, all while getting my MBA degree would have to be my favorite thing about playing here at AIC. I’m grateful to be able to represent the only school & coaching staff that believed in my talent coming out of high school. 

2.What is a skill you have that you think translates into the NFL well?

I strongly believe my versatility on the offensive side of the ball would translate well in the NFL. Throughout my 3 seasons at AIC I’ve taken snaps at RB, both Z & X WR, and even wildcat QB. Having been very productive at each position, I take a lot of pride in being able to perform well in different positions. 

3.What is your mindset when you are on the football field?

When I’m playing, whether it be in practice or a game the mindset is to get the job done. Whether I have to block a DE on slide protection, win my matchup out wide or get the first down in a 3rd & short situation from the backfield. 

4.If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

I’d chop it up with James Robinson from the Jacksonville Jaguars. The reason being, he went from being an undrafted rookie to one of the top rushers in the league. That’s inspiring for someone coming from a small school with aspirations of playing in the NFL. I’d ask a lot of questions pertaining to what his mindset was coming into the building & how that carried him through the season he had. I’d want to hear about how he dealt with the pressures & adversity of going undrafted. Also, how he mentally & physically prepares for the job. 

5.What is your favorite workout?

Heavy hang cleans are by far my favorite workout in the weight room. Being able to exert enough force to move however much weight you have on the bar within a second is impressive. It also translates well into the sport since we have to both exert & absorb a lot of force fast on the field. 

6.What do you think are the keys to success on the football field?

The main key to being successful in the field is to be prepared in all facets. Mentally (knowing your plays, making sure you watched film, being able to read a front/leverage/coverages), physically (being in the best possible physical shape to perform), & instinctively (being able to adjust & react to what’s out there) 

7.What is a moment in your football career that improved you as a football player?

Not receiving a D1 scholarship coming out of high school changed my perspective. It flipped a switch for me, I was never lazy or unproductive but it made me tap into another space. It changed my work ethic completely. Looking back it made me a better player & sharpened my character as a person. 

8.Rank focus,footwork and skill based on what is most important to you as a football player and explain why?

My focus is a 10/10, as far as footwork & skill there is always room for improvement but I’m confident in my ability to perform. 

9.What type of energy do you bring onto the football field?

Not the loudest guy but I’m definitely locked in when it’s time to play. That focused & alert energy rubs off on my teammates & coaches.

10.What would a team get in a player like you?

Teams would get someone who is reliable to do the given job whether it’s out on specials or the offensive side of the ball. Someone who is always prepared both mentally & physically for practice or a game. Someone who is coachable & willing to put in the work. 

11.What has been your biggest challenge in life?

My biggest challenge in life was pulling myself out of a hole back during my senior year of high school when I thought my dream of playing college ball may of been over. 

12. What sets you apart from other wide receivers and running backs?

My versatility mainly, having a skill set that allows me to make plays from different positions on the field.