Interview With Jhurell PresslEY, RB, New Mexico

Jhurell Pressley (RB, New Mexico) is one of the more underrated NFL Draft prospects at running back in recent seasons.  He has great vision on the field and scored 11 touchdowns in 2015, but he still does not get the hype that he deserves.  Much like players like Zach Zenner, who led the NFL in rushing last pre-season, Pressley is extremely talented, and can make a significant impact on an NFL team. Here's some film. He was one of the best players at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl this season. He's a quick, athletic guy (4.38 40, 9-9 broad jump, 25 bench press reps, a 33.5 vertical, 6.92 3-cone L drill, and a 4.06 5-10-5 drill), and is great with the ball in  his hands. At worst, he's an NFL change of pace back. His ceiling is much higher than that.  We were fortunate enough to spend some time interviewing him.  Questions in black, Jhurell's answers in maroon.

Mr. Pressley, you have been an extremely productive college player.  In 2014, you averaged 9.5 yards per carry.  In 2015, you rushed for 907 yards and 11 touchdowns.  What are your strongest points as an NFL prospect?

The strongest points as an NFL prospect will be special teams and giving defenses change of pace by showing off my speed and explosiveness. 

Tell us a bit about your past.  How has your childhood and upbringing impacted the player that you are today?

My childhood impacted how I play now because since I was six years old I had my eyes on football and I always been very passionate about the game. It's not just a game, it's my life.

You overcame a pretty scary blood clot in your shoulder a while back. Tell us a bit about your experience. What impact has that had on you, both as a player and an individual?

I took on this blood clot like a fight. I lift my chin, plant my feet, and took a brace as I knew that this will be a long fight. As a player it put my life into perspective to know that any day can be your last snap.

Safety has been a major concern in the NFL in recent years.  What are your thoughts on the NFL's new focus on player safety?

I believe  that safety is very important. I appreciate the light that shines on safety in the NFL because if one teammate is out or hurt, it effects the whole team.

You were a pretty versatile player in college.  What positions have you played besides RB?

WILDCAT 
KR
GUNNER
KO
PUNT RETURN HOLD UP

Compared to other players at your position, what makes you stand out as a prospect?

What makes me stand out at RB is knowing what everyone has to do on the field to make a play work.

Who are some of your role models?

My brother James Pressley AKA Jel

Who is your favorite NFL player? Are there any players you try to emulate on the field?

Ray Lewis because the tenacity  Ray Lewis played with is how I want to play like.

What NFL player would you compare yourself to, and why?

I wouldn't compare myself to one player because I like to use parts of a lot of different running styles to make my game better.

What points would you like to make to any coaches or scouts who may be reading this article? What makes you a great prospect?

I want the scouts to know that I am a guy that is coachable and have hard work and dedication on my mind at all times.



Thank you for your time Jhurell, and we look forward to watching your career unfold! Best of luck in the draft process! --Mike Bertasso and Matt Koontz, www.mattandmikesports.com

We would like to thank Glen Wallace from Peterson Sports for facilitating this interview. Glen has asked us to add the following statement, that Glen Wallace, James Peterson and Dave Thompson and the entire Peterson Sports family are very proud of Jhurell.