NFL Draft: Interview with Colorado WR Nelson Spruce

Oct 4, 2014; Boulder, CO, USA; Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver Nelson Spruce (22) reacts after dropping a pass in the first quarter against the Oregon State Beavers at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2014; Boulder, CO, USA; Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver Nelson Spruce (22) reacts after dropping a pass in the first quarter against the Oregon State Beavers at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Where did your love for football develop?

In my upbringing. My dad was really into it and I was around sports my whole life. Something I took to real quick.

When did you know you wanted to be a football player?

At five years old, before I even played organized sports. First thing I was passionate about.

Who was your favorite team growing up?

I didn’t really have a team because I grew up in LA. I liked the Steelers when I was growing up because of their colors. There wasn’t a team I was super into.

Which team would you most like to play for?

All of them!

What is your biggest motivation through this whole process?

The fact that I’m so close to accomplishing my lifelong dream of playing in the NFL.  I’m so close.

Who is your favorite NFL player, active or retired?

Jerry Rice

Is there a coach who’s had a strong impact on your life and career?

My last WR coach I had —Troy Walters – as a player and a person he was someone I could always count on to give me good advice. He’s been through it all, he played in the League for a few years and was someone I could relate to.

If football doesn’t work out, what’s your plan for life?

My family is involved in nutrition and sports medicine, I could see myself get into that.

Next: Nelson Spruce Scouting Report

What is your biggest strength as a player?

My reliability.

What was the strangest question you have been asked by an NFL team?

I wasn’t really asked anything weird – can’t think of anything.

Have you had much contact with NFL teams and what projections are they giving you?

I spoke to numerous teams at the combine and my pro day, I really don’t have any idea as far as projections go.

What has the entire Draft process been like for you?

Hectic. It’s like a waiting game at this point. There were highs and lows and now we are all waiting for that day.

Talk about your experience at the NFL Combine

The longest week of my life. It was more mentally draining than anything.

What does being the Pac-12 all time receptions leader mean to you?

It means a lot. You obviously want to be the best and leave your mark. To be able to say I held that record with the great receivers that have come through our conference is pretty awesome.

What will you miss most about Boulder, CO?

The college experience. It was a great place to spend four and a half years. I will always have a lot of great memories.

What WR’s do you like to watch on film?

Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin, guys like that.

Thank you to Nelson Spruce and Rep 1 Sports