2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Joseph Andreessen, LB, Bryant University

• Name: Joseph Andreessen
• Position: LB
• College: Bryant University
• Height: 6’1.5” 
• Weight: 240
• Twitter: @JoeAndreessen
• Instagram: josephandreessen 

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2023 NFL Draft?

I believe that I check all the boxes to be able to play at a high level. I have a great understanding of the game of football and what works well for me and my playstyle. Along with that, I am a quick learner with the size, skillset, and athletic ability to compete with the best that play this game. I’m a team-oriented person who loves to compete with a passion and desire to become the best in any position I am put in. 

At what age were you first interested in the sport of football?

The first Super Bowl I remember watching was the Patriots vs the Eagles in 2004. I started playing football a couple of years after that when I was 7 years old. Sports, especially football, have always been a big part of my life. 

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

I wrestled since I was 5 years old and was a two-time state placer at 182lbs and 220lbs in high school. Wrestling was a big part of my life growing up, but I had a deeper passion for football. Wrestling gave me skills that I could translate onto the football field like body control, hand fighting, and leverage. Wrestling is a sport unlike most others since once you step onto that mat you only have yourself to rely on. 

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?

I would donate to cancer research since it has personally affected my family.  In my hometown of Buffalo, New York we have one of the leading cancer hospitals in the nation, Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

My father always told me that a person can learn a lot from old sayings or quotes.  With that in mind, this quote from a book I read resonates with me, “All men have fears, but the brave put down their fears and go forward, sometimes to death, but always to victory.” This really spoke to me and I keep it as my screensaver on my phone so I can see it every day. It reminds me that the only person that holds me back from anything is myself and I have to have faith over fear in all that I do. 

Who was your childhood hero?

Tom Brady was my childhood hero.  His underdog and team-first mentality, winning attitude, exceptional work ethic, and competitive spirit all led to him being called the GOAT.  I’m from Buffalo and a Bills fan, so admitting that always triggers some interesting responses from fellow Bills fans since they love to hate Tom Brady.  For, as a football player myself and growing up watching him play I knew I was witnessing greatness.

Who is the most underrated teammate in your locker room at your school?

There are two people that come to mind for this question. One teammate graduated this past year, Harrison Easton, faced a great deal of adversity throughout his football career but it never stopped his will to compete. He was the type of guy to never miss a workout or make an excuse about something not going his way. He also brought great energy to the team and his energy made others around him want to play alongside.  The other person, Jack Agnew, was an older teammate of mine who graduated in 2021. He was a player that was often overlooked by coaches. Jack was one never to complain to anyone about his situation, but he controlled the controllable. He focused on doing the little things right, whether it was in a drill or running plays on defense. My sophomore year, Jack was the backup to start that year. During summer camp, Jack earned his way to get first team reps and took full advantage of his opportunity. He ended up starting all 11 games that season and all 4 games during the COVID year. 

What is your biggest pet peeve?

My biggest pet peeve are people who have negative attitudes.  I always try to look at the glass half full and keep a positive outlook even in difficult situations.  I believe that with perseverance you can overcome any obstacle if you change the attitudes of others around you to recognize a common goal.

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?

We all go through adversities, big and small.  The real question is do we just get through them or do we grow from them?  I have overcome many adversities in my life and to list one would do all the others an injustice, since they all have contributed to making me a better person.

Tell me something about your school and why it is so special to you?

Bryant University is a hidden gem in the smallest state.  The Bryant experience is second to none with a guaranteed quality education on a beautiful campus surrounded by amazing people.

What is your favorite snack food?

My favorite food to snack on are fruits. Apples are my go-to, but berries, watermelon, grapefruit, and grapes are also up there. 

What is the best part of football?

The best part of football for me is the team aspect of the game. I’m a team first guy and football is the ultimate team sport. There is so much more than just talented players that go into making a successful team. It also goes far beyond the 11 starters on offense and defense. The relationships that are built are important, not only between players but also with the coaches. It’s the best feeling to play on a team where everyone wants to play for one another and wants to see their teammates succeed. That is what makes football so great, this intense drive between people to accomplish a common goal.   

If you could sell yourself in one sentence what would you say?

Strong, solid inside and out, someone you can count on through thick and thin, my actions speak louder than words.

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

One player I try to model my game after is Matt Milano, linebacker for the Buffalo Bills. He is able to play the game at a high-speed level while maintaining great technique. His pass coverage is something I watch a lot and try to incorporate his technique into my gameplay. He is extremely tough and aggressive while looking to make big-time plays. He’s a productive player with good instincts and a nose for the ball and I think he is very underrated throughout the league. 

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why?

I would have dinner with Jesus because He is our Lord and Savior and I would invite my parents so they could meet Him with me.