Every NFL defense loves having versatile weapons who can make plays all over the field. Memphis’ Austin Hall is one such prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft class.
Hall recently spoke exclusively with Draft Wire about his unique skill set, the recent pro day workout he filmed, and why an NFL team should take a chance on him in this year’s draft.
JM: How would you describe your play style?
AH: I’m a versatile guy. I can do multiple things. I’ve played both inside and outside. I’ve played at linebacker and safety for multiple years now. I understand different techniques, schemes and coverages. Playing both positions taught me a lot. I’ve played at the line of scrimmage as well. I’ve dropped back in coverage and played man-to-man on tight ends and slot receivers. Memphis asked a lot of me and I was happy to do it. I’ve gone up against guys at all levels of competition. My versatility allows me to do a lot of different things. I bring a lot to the table.
JM: You’ve been so versatile throughout your time at Memphis. What’s your favorite part about your skill set?
AH: I love being able to set the tone on defense. I’ve always wanted to do whatever I can to help the team. That’s always been my mentality. It’s always going through my mind. I loved being able to play in that hybrid role. I can blitz like a linebacker or cover like a safety. We called it the “star” position at Memphis for a long time. We switched up our defense a little bit last season. I’ve done, and seen a lot of different things while playing that “star” spot. I played a lot outside on the perimeter and I really enjoyed that. That was probably my favorite position. I love playing on the outside and being able to blitz off the edge. I can make some plays on the outside.
JM: You held a pro day recently and filmed the results. What can you tell me about that?
AH: The results were great. I had 17 reps on the bench press. My broad jump was 10-feet. I had a 40-inch vertical. I brought my 40-yard dash time down to a 4.50 flat which was great. I hit a 6.84 in the L-drill. I’ve worked really hard the past few months. I’ve been preparing for the draft down in Birmingham. I became family with my trainers down here and we really put our heads down and went to work. There are a few guys down here and we had our Pro Day together. Everybody really showed out. The numbers were great and as they say, the film doesn’t lie. I’m very confident in my film. It was a successful day. Hopefully some of these NFL teams will take notice. All you need is one team to like you.
JM: Speaking of teams, which have you been in contact with?
AH: I’ve had interest from the Steelers, Colts, Chiefs, Cowboys, Raiders and Bills. I’ve either spoken to every single one of those teams, or they’ve been in communication with my agent. I’m supposed to do something with the Packers and 49ers as well. There’s been a solid two handfuls of teams. The Chiefs and Cowboys seem to like me quite a bit. My versatility brings a lot to the table.
JM: Playing at Memphis afforded you the opportunity to play against some of the best competition college football has to offer. Who are some of the best opponents you’ve squared off with?
AH: We played against Iowa State in the Liberty Bowl back in 2017 when David Montgomery was the running back over there. He plays for the Chicago Bears now. He was outstanding at Iowa State. He was tough to bring down. We actually forced a fumble in that game. I think that was the only fumble he had all season. It was some crazy stat. We felt pretty good about that (laughs). He’s very good. We played against Penn State in the Cotton Bowl this past season. They’re obviously a big-time powerhouse team. It was the last game of the season. The running back over there was also an outstanding player. Those were two talented guys right there. I enjoyed playing against them. They’re definitely the two best running backs I’ve ever squared off with.
JM: Why should an NFL team use one of their draft picks on Austin Hall?
AH: I’m gonna be one of the hardest workers you can find at the next level. I walked on at Memphis and the rest is history. I worked my butt off to become a main contributor on our defense. I’ve had to earn every single thing. All I need is one opportunity. I have a lot of skills that I’m excited to showcase. I’m gonna be a versatile chess-piece at the next level. I work hard both on and off the field. Relationships are everything. I try to do everything the right way. I truly believe in that.
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