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This is Charlie Campbell’s interview with Utah defensive end Nate Orchard. Charlie is reporting live from Mobile, Ala., and he’ll be posting interviews throughout the week. If you want to see other 2015 Senior Bowl Reports, click the link. Follow me @walterfootball for updates, and stay tuned all week for tons of 2015 Senior Bowl coverage. |
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2015 Senior Bowl: Nate Orchard Interview
By Charlie Campbell – @draftcampbell
Utah defensive end Nate Orchard had a breakout 2014 season and was one of the most productive pass-rushers in college football. His 18.5 sacks finished less than one sack short of leading the nation as Washington’s Hau’Oli Kikaha was able to record 19 on the season. Orchard could play defensive end in a 4-3 defense or 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL. WalterFootball.com joined a media huddle to discuss with Orchard his Senior Bowl experience.
How would you grade yourself this week?
“I’d give myself a B or B+. There were a couple of things I wanted to perfect. I’m a perfectionist, so I’ll go back and break down the film and keep working to perfect them.”
What are things you’re wanting to perfect?
“Just little things, hand placement, better with my feet. Those are things I can consistently get better at.”
You had a college teammate who has done well in a 4-3 in the NFL in Panthers defensive tackle Star Lotulelei. Did you meet with Carolina?
“I did. I didn’t have a chance to talk to them about Star, but I definitely had a chance to meet with the Panthers.”
What do you remember about Star?
“He was nice, but mean at the same time. But he was someone you could definitely go to in times of need. Great guy. Great example. One that I definitely looked up to.”
In high school, where did you play?
“I played defense and offense. I was a receiver on offense and a defensive end.”
Were you recruited as a receiver or end? And why did you find a home at end?
“I was recruited to play receiver originally. I came in at 190 pounds and after my first week there, coach [Whittingham] hooked me up on the defensive side of the ball. I love playing defense. They needed the numbers and they had tons of receivers. I like hitting people. I like getting after it. I like making plays and I’m a defensive guy.”
In meeting with 4-3 teams, do they look at you as an end or outside linebacker?
“End. A lot of teams say they want to play me wherever I’m best at. I’ve had my hand down on the ground for 10 years, so I think that’s where I’m best at.”
What is your best position in the NFL?
“Defensive end. For sure.”
What about 3-4 defenses?
“That wouldn’t be a problem to transition to that.”
Who are some of the teams you’ve met with thus far at the Senior Bowl?
“Every team I guess you could say. All 32.”
Does any team stand out as having shown more interest than others?
“Probably the Titans. I’ve been working with them and their staff really well this week. I’ve had a good chance to connect with them.
Why should an NFL team draft you?
“I love what I do. I’m passionate about football. I’m chasing greatness. I saw a lot of great players do amazing things, and I want to be in that position as well.”
What players did you pattern your game after?
“I take bits and pieces from a lot of players. Aldon Smith. Dwight Freeney. Ray Lewis. Guys like that.”
What do you want teams to know about you personally?
“I’m a huge asset to any team. I’m married. I have a little girl, so I have a family life. I don’t plan on going out and partying after games. I definitely won’t be a problem for any team that drafts me.”
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