In many ways Marcus Hardison is just like most young adults leaving college and entering the real world.
He’s found his passion.
His resume is complete.
Now it’s just finding the right place for employment.
By Saturday the former Arizona State standout defensive end will know his destination. The 6’3, 305-pounder has steadily climbed up many mock draft boards after impressing NFL scouts and personnel following a breakout senior season in Tempe which included 10 sacks and 15 tackles-for-loss.
“I feel that I’m probably one of the best linemen,” the All Pac-12 Honorable Mention Hardison told Sports360AZ.com’s Brad Cesmat in a phone interview Monday morning. “What I [did] my senior year was pretty good but when it all comes down to it, it only takes one team to really like you.”
One positive impression he made was with his footwork and use of his hands. His agility, combined with his size has some, like NFL Network draft analyst Charles Davis believing Hardison could climb up into the second round of the draft.
“I’m just ready to get on a team and start working,” the former Dodge City Community College explained. “I did have a good season. I can only thank my coaches and teammates for that.”
A fitting response from the modest Hardison who ramped up his game last fall for Todd Graham and the Sun Devils following the losses of Will Sutton, Carl Bradford, Chris Young and other playmakers.
Although playing exclusively outside at ASU Hardison said most NFL teams envision him inside at three-technique or nose tackle. Regardless, he’s hoping to drop a little weight once the season begins.
“Once the season starts,” he said. “I want to be at least 295.”
Hardison has visited the Vikings, Lions and Bengals and plans on watching the draft with family and friends in his home state of Louisiana.
A party is expected…with a variety of excellent food.
“I’m going to have to be disciple,” he quipped. “I’m going to have to stay away from the table.”
