Draft Diary: Washington State DT Xavier Cooper tracks path to NFL (Part 2)
Xavier Cooper played defensive tackle at Washington State for three years. Cooper, who is originally from Tacoma, Wash., made himself eligible for the 2015 NFL Draft. He teamed up with FOX Sports to do a draft diary. Cooper will take you through the process of training for the NFL Combine, his pro day and anticipation for draft day. (Part 1)
SAN DIEGO -- The NFL Combine was a great overall experience. It was pretty stressful with all team interviews and the psychological testing. For the most part the Combine was a mental interview more than physical.
I wanted teams to know that I am a legit top prospect in this year's draft. I think people get caught up in the notion that what they hear and read is always true. My character and my film tells me what type of person and player I am. A defensive tackle that competes. A defensive tackle with good football IQ, size, speed, strength, quickness with a just a touch of athleticism. All the right aspect you need in a defensive tackle in the NFL.
The most exciting part of the NFL Combine was meeting and competing with all top prospects in the country. What people fail to realize is that only one percent of the world can do what we do as football players. We are extremely blessed and all of us have a different story to tell on how we have gotten to where we're at.
I also was very excited to see how I matched up physically to the other prospects in my position. I'm glad the hard work I put in allowed me to finish amongst the top at my position in the 40-yard dash, bench, 3 cone drill and 20 yard shuttle.
Now that the combine is over, I'm heading back home to get ready for my pro day. I'll be lifting and conditioning there. I'm looking forward to pro day because it is another opportunity to compete and to show my ability.
I want to thank my fans and let you know that I appreciate all the support. Without you guys I would not be able to play this exciting game called football.
Thanks and Go Cougs!!