The transition from college football to the NFL is akin to that of the college graduate to the workforce. It is not uncommon for both sets of students to fail to appreciate the obvious differences between college activity and the work force (i.e., the NFL). The NFL is one of the most competitive work environments in the world and while possessing the requisite athletic ability elliminates the large majority of would-be competitors, there still exists an extremely scarce supply of jobs. Having the athletic ability is a given in the NFL, it's the other factors that set a player apart from the competition.
Players cannot change the plays they made on film, the injuries they sustained or the work ethic to which they historically adhered, for better or worse. However, there is a lot that can and should be done.
Most are astute enough to realize that they need to work with a strength and movement specialist to maximize their performance in the various physical tests administered (i.e., 40 yd. dash, verticle, 3-Cone, shuttles, etc.). These “measurables” are an important beginning for evaluating an athlete’s ability to succeed at the next level. However, this is just one aspect. Players should spend just as much, if not more, time increasing their FBI: Football Intelligence and professionalism. Let’s first take a look at FBI.
There’s no shortage of pundits emphasizing the parity between the players in terms of size, speed, strength and abilities at this next level. This highlights the importance of the coaches’ game plan, mid-game adjustments and player execution. NFL players must have a deep understanding of the basics for each position and the mental warfare that rages on each play and overall game. The Packer defense iced their victory over the Bears in last week’s playoff game in collectively working an inexperienced quarterback into an interception. Players should not only seek out mentors who’ve been there but also find books, online articles and other reading materials. They need to learn the nuance involved with their position as well as the other 21 positions on the field to become an effective participant in this NFL game of mental warfare.
The final piece of the puzzle involves a combination of work ethic and professionalism which defines competitiveness. It’s one thing to be competitive once the opening kickoff ensues, however, the true competitor works equally hard if not harder off the field. Players must study film of themselves to evaluate flaws in their own performance so they can work on technique to minimize “tells” and maximize their effectiveness. They must also study opponents to help sharpen game instincts. Every week of the NFL season and playoffs players make instinctual moves enabled by their understanding of the game evolving around them; the pregame preparation payoff.
Coaches look for players that are cognizant of the entire scheme with the foundational skills and attitude to develop into effective NFL players. They must look, act and talk like NFL players. They must exhibit leadership skills and the personality to assimilate with the team. When you get through working on your bench press and broad jump, spend some time exercising your mind on the game itself. Seek out mentors to help you. Visualize yourself entering rookie camp: digesting a 400 page play book; meeting a litany of coaches, personnel and other players; getting familiar with the various personalities and a new set of rules and expectations. Your preparation and focus will allow you to absorb and channel these external influences to produce a valuable tool in the coaches quiver; become a quality weapon. Good luck to all of you preparing for the 2011 NFL Combine and Pro Day!
Posted on
Sun, January 30, 2011
by David Wyatt