Interview: NFL Dream within Grasp for Texas Southern OLB/DE Chrishon Frazier
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Every athlete, even the weekend warriors and recreational enthusiasts, dream of being at the top of their given pursuit even if for just one day. For high school football players with collegiate aspirations, the blood, sweat, tears, and countless hours of self-sacrifice to improve and for the betterment of their team fantasizes not only of playing at the next level but also in the NFL. For Chrishon Frazier, his journey from Orlando to Los Angles Valley Community College has led him to Texas Southern where the next step to the professional ranks are within reach.
With the Tigers picking up their 2020 season this spring, and the NCAA giving an additional year to seniors due to the coronavirus impact, outside linebacker/defensive end Chrishon Frazier is within one year of realizing his daydreams of being a professional athlete. The path forward is unknown for Frazier, but the grit and determination to make an idea a reality is forceful.
After a junior season in 2019 spent getting acclimated to the Tigers’ defensive scheme, the 6-3, 220-pound, defender is coming into his own. Texas Southern is two games into their 2020 campaign with just two contests left on the board after the Grambling State showdown was cancelled. Picking up on the season and his future aspirations, Frazier stopped by the RNG Clubhouse for a one-on-one confab.
Interview
Chrishon, after a long wait Texas Southern is back on the field playing out the 2020 season this spring. Being your senior season, how does it feel getting after it one more time at the collegiate level?
It feels really good. It is another opportunity to play. This spring is awkward because of COVID, but I get those extra snaps and the extra year.
What defensive scheme are the Tigers executing this season?
Our main set is a 4-2 defense; I play defensive end in that set as an edge rusher. We also have a 3-4 where I play outside linebacker.
Playing end in the 4-2 alignment, what are your responsibilities?
In the 4-2 my responsibilities are to rush off the edge, contain the quarterback, and turn in all pull blockers.
And at outside linebacker? What are your responsibilities then?
I am an edge rusher as well but more of a box player. I drop into coverage and contain the quarterback. For a big guy, I can move my hips well in coverage.
Throughout the protracted offseason, how did the Tigers’ coaching staff keep the team active in the weight room?
During COVID it was tough, but they always made sure that they sent workout videos and they made sure we got our reps. When we got back on campus, we went into the weight room and kept up with everything.
Last time you maxed out, what numbers did you post?
On bench I maxed out at 325 and my squat was 405.
What were you doing to condition your body for the season while improving upon your speed and quickness?
Living in LA, I was doing a lot of hill runs. I was running about five miles every day. I was also doing yard work and ladder drills. Throughout the offseason I stayed in shape getting ready for the season.
Colliding against Southwestern Athletic Conference offensive tackles, what moves were you working on to prepare for the season?
I am a speed guy, I like using my speed. I have been working on a chop dip and a stutter step bull rush. Those are my two main moves. I like to keep on the outside of the tackle with my speed. They cannot keep up with my speed. I can go outside and back in if I need to.
The team picked up action on March 6 with a game against Prairie View A&M and then took on Southern University after an open date. Two games in, where are you showing the improvements in your game from the 2019 season?
For my personal game, I am locking in more than the 2019 season. This season I am using more of my mental strength. In 2019, I was still getting used to D-I football. This spring has helped me slow down more. This fall (2021), I will be more prepared.
What do you feel are the traits to your skillset that may get overlooked?
If anything, it is my strength. I think I am a pretty strong guy even though I may not use it in my moves. I need to show NFL scouts my power and show them the dog in me not just the speed I have.
The showdown against Grambling State was cancelled, next up is Mississippi Valley on April 17. What has the defense been doing to prepare for Valley’s offensive attack?
Compared to this game and the others, we have to shut down their quarterback. He is one of the best players on their team. If we contain him, we will have the game in hand. We have to win up front and be more physical.
What goals have you set for the totality of the 2020 season and/or the last two games against Mississippi Valley and Arkansas-Pine Bluff?
My goals are to be the best me, do my job, do my role the best, and help my team win. If I do my job when the play come to me it benefits me and my team.
Chrishon, thanks for your time today. Wishing you and the Tigers success over the next two games and into the summer preparing for your senior season this fall.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Texas Southern; Chrishon Frazier in action