Zac Newbell is a wide receiver out of Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, AR. With a lean frame and blazing fast speed, he is looking to make it with an NFL squad. We here at Last Word on Pro Football got a chance to talk with Zac and get to know him better. Here’s what we found out.
Zac Newbell, Perpetual Slot Threat
From a first glance at his vitals, you may think he is a bit small, but if you look at the recent history of the NFL slot receiver, Newbell fits right in. Guys like Cole Beasley, Wes Welker, and Tyreek Hill all stack up the same in that category, and are, or were, among the best in the game from the slot. When asked what sets him apart from other receivers he said this, “My football I.Q. & leadership is what has kept me on the field. I have the gift of knowing the outside and slot positions on both sides of the field. If a spot needs to be filled, coaches can look to me and throw me in there with confidence that I’ll efficiently execute my job.” He also said this, “I’m very flexible, as I had two offensive coordinators at HSU and I was able to transition smoothly.”
Newbell also has another valuable trait in his arsenal. He has blazing speed, and it’s apparent. In his highlight tape, he is consistently running past guys and even had a tweet go viral in July of 2018. He was on a treadmill and reached 24 MPH. Treadmill or not, there aren’t many guys who could keep up at that speed. To put that in perspective, Tyreek Hill’s top speed is 24.09 MPH and he’s easily one of, if not the fastest in the league. To couple with the speed, Newbell also has soft hands and quick reaction, showing the ability to make plays after the catch.
24mph‼️ Been constantly progressing all summer. That time is here? pic.twitter.com/AHVvxNQsu6
— Zac Newbell ?? (@that_boyy_zac) July 30, 2018
Putting the Team First
When I asked Newbell to describe his senior season at HSU, he had high praise for his teammates and staff. “We had a really fun team last year. We finished 9-3 and got to play in a bowl game, which is exciting, especially for seniors. The general group feeling was extremely motivating and had immense competitive energy every day.” Newbell openly praised his team and coaches and took pride in being a good teammate. Newbell also described himself as a good teammate and worked every day to keep it like that. “Being from Houston & attending two separate colleges, I’m able to vibe with everyone. I’ve never had any off-field issues either. I attribute that to my parents who are both military veterans and instilled discipline, and protecting the family name at a young age.” He also went on to say that a lot of Junior College players get negatively stereotyped and it isn’t really fair, because a lot of those guys are trying to make their way as well.
Newbell was asked to describe which player he would see himself as, and he said Antonio Brown. Even though he isn’t a fan of Brown’s off the field antics, he obviously holds himself to a high standard as “AB” is one of the best receivers ever, and also came from a small college in Central Michigan. He also said “I enjoy watching Stefon Diggs and Emmanuel Sanders a lot; as they’ve been consistent playmakers for years. They can also play both the slot and outside.”
Inspiration From His Hometown
Newbell finds a lot of inspiration in his hometown, especially with the Houston Texans. “I remember watching Andre Johnson, and him just plucking footballs from over top of DBs. My dad took me to a few games in my youth and I fell in love with the game right then and there. Johnson became a role model for me for many years to come. He was exceptional both on and off the field.” When asked what team he uses in Madden he says the Texans. “I love playing with their offense. You have three good weapons at wide receiver in Nuk, Will Fuller, and Kenny Stills, so it’s really pick your poison. DeShaun Watson though, that guy is just a freak athlete, even in the game. Not to mention their defense is always solid.
Newbell is definitely staying positive in these times as well. When asked if he had any contact with any NFL Front offices, he said not yet. “Unfortunately, because of the COVID-19 situation going on, a couple of my pro days were canceled. Those would have been a great opportunity for me, but I’m still training every day and I will find a way for these guys to see me.” Newbell also said that film study was important, at any level. “Film is most important to me because there is always something to learn. There is something to learn from other players and myself to use to my benefit. I also believe training is in the same bracket though, because coupling the efficient weight training with skills training keeps my body healthy.”
Zac Newbell is obviously a guy who puts his team first. He strives to be a better player, so he works every single day. Newbell is working toward his dream of being an NFL player, and which team will give him a chance? That is unforeseen, but now we know the type of person and the type of player that he can be. You can follow Zac on Twitter “@that_boyy_zac”.
