Quick 6: Get to know NFL Draft Prospect Norell Pollard

Former Virginia Tech IDL Norell Pollard continues to overcome adversity and is one of the most underrated defensive players in their year’s draft class. 

He started all 61 games in his college career at Virginia Tech and totaled 49 starts during that time. Furthermore, he has complied 110 pressures, 22 tackles for loss, 12 sacks and one touchodown.

Pollard has the third-highest pass-rush win rate at his position and is a monster when it comes to getting to the quarterback.

The 6’0, 288-pound lineman had one of the best bench press performances of all time, benching 225 pounds 29 times. Their was only one player in Pollard’s position group who had more than him: DL Jordan Jefferson (34).

Pollard recently spoke with The Patriots Beat about the obstacles he’s faced, playing every game in college and how he is setting himself up for success.

Note: Some responses have been shortened due to technical difficulties on my end during the interview.

You played in every game over the last five years and started 48. You rarely see that in college sports today. Could you talk about your mindset and playing in every game possible?

It means everything. I kind of have that grind-it-out mindset. It’s really important to me to be able to play for my teammates.

I know Virginia Tech went through three different defensive coordinators. How has that been challenging as a player, and what could you take away from that?

It’s challenging, but I was fortunate to learn under three different coaches. It prepares you for the NFL because you don’t know what to expect. At the same time, it was hard because you’re learning a new defense each season with a different scheme.

You put on a show at your pro day. You had 29 reps on the bench press, more than any DT at the Combine—Jordan Jefferson. After being snubbed from the Combine, did you have positive feedback and conversations with NFL Scouts?

Absolutely. I’ve always had a chip on my shoulder since I never had the opportunity to play in any bowl games or get invited to the Combine. I feel like at the Combine, I’m as good as a bunch of those players. Hopefully, I could show scouts I have what it takes to get drafted.

You decided to stay home instead of train elsewhere. What went into that decision?

We like to preach that Virginia Tech is our home, and the training staff here is great. I think staying here and grinding with my brothers was the right choice. Also, Marvin Harrison Jr., the best prospect in the class, decided to stay at Ohio State, and I think a few more payers are starting to do that.

Tell me a little about how you started playing football and what motivates you to get on that field daily.

Yeah, so I didn’t start playing football until sixth grade.; I was kind of a late bloomer, and, of course, I started on JV for a little bit before I moved to varsity for a few seasons. I then committed to Virginia Tech and played there my whole college career. I had obstacles along the way.

I know your defensive line coach meant a lot to you. Could you tell me a little about that relationship? 

Man, I learned everything. As a player on the line, I learned everything—technicalities, formations, you name it. He was basically my second dad, and we laughed tougher, cried together—everything. He couldn’t make it to the NFL, so he kind of poured all of that into me and taught me everything I know to this day.