2019 NFL draft: Introducing Renell Wren, the powerful bull of the defensive line class

Arizona State put up 7 wins in 2018 and will be sending some talent to the 2019 NFL draft.

One such prospect is Renell Wren, a destructive force that anchored the Sun Devils’ impressive defensive line.

Wren recently spoke exclusively with MCM about his experience at the NFL Scouting Combine, how he’s working to improve as a pass-rusher, and which offensive line unit gave him the most trouble in college.

JM: What was the experience like for you at the combine?

RW: The combine was absolutely great. I really enjoyed competing out there. Having the chance to compete alongside the defensive line class and meeting the coaches, everything about it was just great. I had some great interviews. It was a stressful week but it was well worth it. I did my bit to get my name out there.

JM: How would you grade your overall performance?

RW: If I was grading myself out of 100, I’d give myself a 95. I felt I did great in the interviews. I gave it my all in every drill. I did what I had to do out there. I made sure I was up on time every morning and was never late for anything. I felt I had a great week.

JM: What do you feel is the lasting impression you left?

RW: I think my size left a huge impression. I think they realized that I’m a flexible and versatile guy. A lot of teams like defensive linemen that can play every single position on the line, and that’s me. I can play them all. I’ve shown that throughout this process. I played every position at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. I was able to show teams how quick I get off the ball. They loved my result in the 40 yard dash and my 10-yard split.

JM: What was the strangest question you were asked at the combine?

RW: I wouldn’t say it was a strange question, but a team asked me if I rather win a Super Bowl or become a Hall of Famer.

JM: How did you answer?

RW: I said win a Super Bowl. I knew that would leave an impression on them. I value team goals above individual goals. I never put myself before the team. I wanna engage with my team and see us all prosper together.

JM: That’s definitely the right answer. Did you have a lot of formal or informal interviews?

RW: I had a few formals. I interviewed with so many teams at the Senior Bowl that I get the impression teams are comfortable with me. They know me pretty well at this point. I met with so many teams at that event. I had a large amount of informal interviews as well. I met with the Chargers, Rams, Colts, Packers and Texans.

JM: Do you have any additional private visits or workouts coming up?

RW: I have a few private workouts set up. I’ll be working out for the Titans, Cardinals and Saints.

JM: What’s your favorite part about playing defensive line?

RW: I love the physicality of it. I love being able to explode off the ball and attacking my opponent. I love everything that happens in the trenches within a play. Being able to be explosive and attacking my man before he attacks me is my favorite part. They already have the advantage of knowing the snap count, so it feels great to beat a guy off the ball.

JM: Do you have a go to move when rushing the passer?

RW: I love the bull rush. I love to overpower my opponent. A lot of scouts love that about me, but they wanna see more out of me. I tried showcasing more than that at the Senior Bowl. I tried to make sure I was showing some versatility and a varied pass rushing arsenal. I used some swim moves over the center, I showed some quickness off the ball. My go to is definitely the bull rush though.

JM: I love that. Is there an NFL quarterback you’d like to sack?

RW: Tom Brady for sure. You can make a lot of money off doing that (laughs).

JM: No doubt (laughs). Who are some of the best offensive linemen you’ve faced throughout your career?

RW: I would have to mention the entire San Diego State offensive line. We played them early in the season and they really impressed me. They have an old fashioned offense. When they run the ball, they’re running it down your throat. They’re well trained and coached to do that. They were heavy on the hands. They’re smart players and they understand what they’re doing. The full back is really good. I’m telling you, that dude does not care about his life (laughs). He’s a dog.

JM: That’s hilarious (laughs). In closing, what kind of impact is Renell Wren gonna make at the next level?

RW: I’m gonna be a leader at the next level. I’ve always been held accountable. I’ve always welcomed adversity with open arms and helped myself and my teammates overcome anything in our way. I’m nothing if I’m not positive. Anything can happen on any given snap. I’ll never have any off the field issues. They don’t have to worry about me. They’re bringing somebody into the position room that’s gonna help them win games.