2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Clay Schueffner, LB, Winona State
- Name: Clay Schueffner
- Height: 6’2”
- Weight: 230 lbs.
- Position: LB
- College: Winona State University
- Twitter: CSchueffner
- Instagram: cschueffner39
Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
I am majoring in Management Information Systems and Management and plan to graduate this fall. Afterwards, I will be pursuing a Master’s in Educational Leadership. I have interned over the past couple years as a project engineer for C.D. Smith Construction. I’ve also participated in the Student Athletic Advisory Committee. I’ve also volunteered with our team doing community service.
What do your teammates say is your best quality?
They would say that I am one of the hardest workers on the team. I’m always consistent. I’m at least 15 minutes early to practice. I’m always locked in and focused. I keep football as a big priority for me.
What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
My role as the MLB is to be the leader on the defense, setting the front and making checks before plays. I take charge as the leader, talking all the way up to the snap. I feel confident in my ability to play in the box or in space. We often play a Tampa 2 where I’m the 3rd dropper, being man-to-man on a TE or slot receiver. With the installment of our new coaching staff, we expect to continue more man concepts. I’ve also played every single special teams in my career with most of my experience on punt coverage. As the years have progressed, my role on special teams has lessened although I take a lot of pride in whatever role a coach asks me to do.
Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
One of the teams that came to mind was Minnesota State-Mankato. That had a good run in 2019, having a good offensive line in players like Evan Heim that opened up lanes for Nate Gunn to take advantage of.
Another player that comes to mind is Malik Williams at Bemidji State. He’s quick and good in space, making him very hard to tackle.
Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
Nick Pridgeon was a very smart player for us who had great size and the ability to move in space. Jaylen Schleicher is a huge target at TE with a great catch radius. He has good hands and feet, making a lot of noise on offense. Carter Duxbury is one of the toughest teammates I’ve ever had. Despite battling through injuries, he continues to produce. He’s always improving day-by-day and has an extreme work ethic.
Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
My freshman year at Winona, we had to deal with a very tragic event at home. My brother died unexpectedly from a hunting accident. It was a hard time for my family, and I had to spend a lot of time at home. Going through that period of grief, I considered staying home and not going back to school. Yet, I knew that I couldn’t tear myself down, and I had to continue going. I had a lot of growing up in that situation. I had been traveling with the team, and ended up redshirting that season. It was probably for the best. I was still able to lift and practice with my teammates, and get acclimated to college life. It was a learning process getting comfortable with the scheme. And I think it all worked out as I grew into my role.
If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
Probably basketball. I participated in basketball and track & field in high school. I played on some very good teams in AAU basketball against great competition.
What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I’m proud of how I have stepped into my role as a leader of our defense. I was thrown into the mix as a freshman due to an injury, but I have secured my role on the field. I’m also proud of being named First Team All-Conference. I’m hoping to improve upon that this season.
Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
We were playing against Bemidji State in 2019 in a very tight game. They had their WRs in trio formation, and their slot receiver ran a seam route. I was able to run underneath the route, completely laying out for the interception. It proved to be a pivotal point in the game, and we ended up beating them 27-14.
Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
Being from Wisconsin, I’ve been a Packers fan my whole life. Luke Kuechly is one of my favorite players and someone that I like to model after. He had one of the best football IQs that the NFL has ever seen. His knowledge was 2nd to none.
Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
I’m a country fan and listen to artists like Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs and Jason Aldean. Aldean’s song “Amarillo Sky” is a good one.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Theo’s 24 is a steakhouse in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Their steak is some of the best.
Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
My favorite movie is Remember the Titans. Shooter is a TV Series that I like. Some of my favorite actors include Adam Sandler and Mark Wahlberg
What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
In my free time, I like to be outside whether it’s hunting or riding 4 wheelers. I also enjoy going to concerts.
Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
I love the team aspect of the game. It’s the ultimate team sport where you need all of the supporting cast to do their 1/11. I love the grind of the game, working out, and being with the guys. Football has also provided friendships that will last forever.
My motivation comes from my family. Also, the thought of letting down my teammates motivates me to work hard and be the best player that I can be.
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