NFL Draft: Interview with UTEP DL Roy Robertson-Harris
Roy Robertson-Harris has an NFL blood line and is looking to fight his way into the NFL. The younger cousin of Pro Bowler Carl Nicks, the defensive lineman from the University of Texas at El Paso is looking to make a strong impression to NFL scouts and general managers.
Measurables
Height: 6’7
Weight: 255 lbs
Notable Stat – 10.5 career sacks as a three year starter
Roy was gracious enough to take time out of his busy schedule and talk about his life before, during, and after football.
When did you know you wanted to be a football player?
When I was 12 years old.
Where did your love for football develop?
I feel that my love for football developed once I realized that I was just as big and and as strong as everyone I played with.
Is there a coach who’s had a strong impact on your life and career?
A coach that has had a strong impact on my life would have to be one of my middle school and high school coaches, Coach Michael Long. Coach Long made it a point to keep my head in the books and made me realize that football will not last forever.
Who was your favorite team growing up?
Growing up, my favorite team was the Oakland Raiders
Which team would you most like to play for?
I would love to play for the Oakland Raiders
Last year a lot of small-school prospects were drafted. What does that mean to you going through this process?
It makes me feel that I still have a chance, even though I attended a small school as well.
What is your biggest motivation through this whole process?
My biggest motivation is my fiancé and our son who will be born in August!
Who is your favorite NFL player, active or retired?
I actually have three favorite players; Khalil Mack, JJ Watt, and Robert Quinn.
Your cousin, Carl Nicks, played for the New Orleans Saints and Tampa Bay Buccaneers and was a two-time Pro Bowler. Have you gotten any advice from him or talked about the draft process?
He’s told me just to enjoy the process, and to keep working hard for my goals.
What is your biggest strength as a player?
As a player, my biggest strength is my size, speed and strength. I feel that I can play the run real well.
What is your biggest weakness as a player?
As a player, my biggest weakness is my explosion, and coverage drops. I feel that I am not completely developed and that I have so much more to learn.
Have you had much contact with NFL teams and what projections are they giving you?
I have taken a visit to Oakland, as well as Kansas City. I have also had a work out with Chicago and Green Bay. I have not had any draft projections given to me.
If football doesn’t work out, what’s your plan for life?
If football does not workout, I would like to be a fireman, or a police detective.
Thank you to Roy and his agent Brandon Taylor of EMG for their cooperation and timely responses during a very hectic time of the year.