2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Artís Hemmingway, DL, Delaware
- Name: Artís Hemmingway
- School: University of Delaware
- Position: DL
- Height: 6’2
- Weight: 265
- Instagram: tis_91
- Twitter: tiswavy15
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
My biggest goal that I was trying to set forth before going into my final season was to surpass my recent successes and become an all-conference player. I had crushed these goals by almost doubling my stats from recent seasons while also playing a new position. I was named 2nd team all-conference for the CAA.
What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?
What made me decide to become a football player, was the development of my love for the game at a young age watching my favorite team play every Sunday and play “backyard” football with friends around the neighborhood.
What makes your journey to this point different/unique from others?
My journey, I would describe it as a game of cards. Going into each season, there were things that most people would not be able to adapt to such as position changes, changing my body to fit these roles, and learning the different playing styles while transitioning through all the positions on the line. This helped me become more of a versatile threat that can play interior but also play on the edge.
Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?
The person in my family that inspires me the most would be my mother. With her being an entrepreneur, she taught me how to handle difficult changes and the mindset of “betting on yourself.”
What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates would say that I am dependable, relentless, physical, and have a win-or-go-home mentality.
What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What separates me from players at my position is that not a lot of defensive linemen can say that they played all positions on the line with each position requiring certain techniques that would allow a d-lineman to thrive in that particular position. Playing all three positions in our 3-4 defensive scheme has allowed me to implement these techniques in my playing style and has allowed me to have a successful career.
What has your offseason plan been to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
This offseason I have been training with one of the top facilities on the east coast which is getting me prepared for these opportunities. Also having a great DL coach to help me clean up on my craft.
What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Some strengths and abilities I have to offer are my power and strength coming off the ball. Playing the nose position this year has helped me tremendously with my center of gravity and my power knocking blockers back in order to cause disruption in the backfield. Playing at the tackle/end position has made my awareness sharp and allows me to have the fast twitch and edge control that is needed in any style of defense. Off the field, this sport has given me the capability to stay focused on a desired goal.
How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?
I handle challenges in life by always going back to this quote “take one step at a time”. With many situations being put into my life, this quote helped me realize that it’s never good to look to far ahead and to handle what’s in the present.
What is your favorite stunt or blitz?
My favorite stunt would have to be the infamous “TEX” stunt!
What should we know about Artis Hemmingway the person?
One thing that you should know about Artis Hemmingway is that he is a person who always thinks outside of the box and will always give his all no matter what the circumstances are.
What weakness(es) do you have as a player and how are you addressing/improving on it?
My biggest weakness as a player is overthinking. This has always been a struggle for me but in the most recent years, it has improved tremendously by me sitting back and realizing that I made it to this point in life by staying true to myself.
What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
The NFL and other pro leagues should know this; I am a man of chance. As a player, you only get a few chances to show what you have to bring to the table. I am a player that only needs that one chance because I’m never gonna stop chasing this dream that I have had my whole life. Not only are you going to be getting a player that is going to empty tank each game or practice but also a person that is going to uplift others into striving for the common goal, which is to become a champion.
