Expert: Thom Brooks - 5/18/2008

Question
Its been a few years since I've played yet I'd love to try out for University of Texas football team or another school. I'm 5'9 175lbs. I know size is a consideration but I recently did an evaluation with US Army track and field team. I run the 100m in 10.31sec. 40 in 4.27 sec. The 2 mile in 9:30 min. and bench press 270lbs. My vertical is 38 in. Had to leave football in high school due to extreme family problems. Currently a soldier. What would be my best chance at success? I've had experience at cornerback, linebacker and wide receiver during high school.

Answer
Charlie, hello!

Your size and speed appears you may best be suited as a CB or WR.  Your height would put you at a disadvantage against the 6'3" competition.  The other side is that your experience in the military offers a solid Leadership and maturity that the candidate fresh out of high school would not possess.  

Charlie, you need to get to the tryout camps and combines.  Talk to your local community when you are home.  Someone will get you steered to the best college.  You may need to start the first year in JUCO or Div-III or the old 1-AA in order to get on a squad.  The Longhorns have plenty of blue chip players and your lack of football experience would hurt you.  Everything goes back to your timing and your personal efforts.  

Thanks for every day you wear the uniform!

Thom Brooks