Michigan junior wide receiver David Terrell declared himself eligible for April's NFL draft on Jan. 8. That day, I had the opportunity to speak with David. Below is a Q&A from that conversation.
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| David Terrell figures to be the first of many talented wide receivers chosen in the 2001 draft. |
Mel Kiper Jr.: When and why did you make the decision to bypass your
final season of collegiate eligibility at Michigan and declare for the NFL
draft?
David Terrell: After our Citrus Bowl win over Auburn, I sat down with
my family and also talked to the coaches here at Michigan. I also tried to
gather as much information as possible as to where I might be selected in
the NFL draft. First of all, I definitely had a number of goals to realize
here at Michigan. Things like winning a national championship, or individual
goals such as the Heisman Trophy or Biletnikoff Award. However, even if I
did return, some of this may have been a long shot, you never know. I also
understand there is no guarantee or certainty as to where I will be selected
in the NFL draft. One thing I do know is that I will work as hard as anyone
in preparation for the challenges that await.
Kiper: Have you looked at the draft order? And where would David
Terrell prefer to begin his NFL career?
Terrell: I'll be honored to play anywhere in the NFL. I have a great
interest and understanding of the history of the NFL. I know I can't control
which player a team will end up taking. I'd love to go to San Diego. They
have the first pick. I understand Cleveland may be looking to bring in
another wide receiver. Really, I would be thrilled to go anywhere.
Kiper: What are your accurate measureables?
Terrell: I'm 6-foot-3½ and currently weigh 210 pounds. I only
ran the 40 once while at Michigan and believe the times were in the 4.3 to
4.4 range. My junior year in high school at the Penn State camp I ran in the
4.3s. At the time, I weighed 190 pounds. I believe I will run in the 4.4
range on grass. I've never had any check of my vertical jump. What really
matters is what a player does in game situations. I jump as high as I have
to ... and have proven I can run by cornerbacks on deep routes.
Kiper: Have you tried to pattern your style of play on any former NFL
star?
Terrell: I have studied and watched film on Jerry Rice, Keyshawn
Johnson, Michael Irvin, Randy Moss and Cris Carter. I look at how they run
their routes, set up the cornerback and vary their speeds. Also how they use
their frame to shield the defender from the football. During the offseason,
I spend a great deal of my time studying how the great ones did their job.
I've tried to benefit from the knowledge and experience of Cris Carter as
much as possible. I plan on attending his speed camp this summer.
Kiper: In talking with you David, it is obvious you are student of
the game. Is that accurate?
Terrell: Definitely! I have always studied a lot of film. In the NFL,
I understand that physical ability only gets you so far. You have to work
hard every day. The technical part of the game is important to me.
Kiper: Growing up in Virginia, was there any NFL player or team that
you followed more closely than the others?
Terrell: Yes, I was a huge fan of the 49ers growing up. Joe Montana
and then Steve Young throwing to Jerry Rice. All future Hall of Famers
combining to form an incredible pass-catch combination.
Kiper: When you came out of the prep ranks, what were your options in
terms of college programs that were showing the most interest?
Terrell: The three schools I narrowed my decision down to were
Michigan, Florida State and Notre Dame.
Kiper: What are your future goals and aspirations in the NFL?
Terrell: Every play you should strive to be the best. Individually,
the Pro Bowl would be great, but the No. 1 goal is winning a Super Bowl. In
order to reach any goal, you have to strive to be productive and consistent
every time out, whether it be practice or a game. Compete hard every play,
with the idea you can never stop improving.
Kiper: Describe David Terrell the wide receiver. What type of player
will the team that selects you be getting?
Terrell: I believe they will be getting a wide receiver who can do it
all. I can go deep or get you a first down on a short or intermediate route.
At Michigan, I didn't always have the chance to stretch the field. We ran
the ball effectively with the "A" Train, Anthony Thomas. At Michigan, the
wide receivers take great pride in our blocking ability.
