Playbook for the Press Conference: Why Media Training Is the NFL Draft's X-Factor
It’s Senior Day season for NCAA football. Marking the final home game of an athlete’s collegiate career can be an emotionally daunting time for the players and their families. While the day celebrates their achievements, it also serves as a stark reminder that their time in college football is nearing the end. As players look to the future, they face a pivotal question: What comes next? The path forward will vary depending on individual aspirations and circumstances. For some, the dream of playing professional football remains within reach. Others will need to explore different options. As a brand manager, I know the importance of proactive planning and action no matter which direction life takes you. For those athletes who will be taking their talents through the NFL Draft process, there is one portion of the planning you should consider taking action on that is often overlooked – media training.
NFL Draft prospects should include media training in their draft plan. Media training is an important part of preparing for the NFL Draft because it helps potential draftees further develop the communication skills necessary to handle press conferences, interviews (media and team), and public appearances effectively, which can significantly impact an athlete’s image and potential marketability to teams once drafted.
Understanding the media landscape
Navigating the NFL media landscape is crucial for any player (or coach). Understanding the types of questions they'll face is vital, from X's and O's breakdowns to locker room controversy. It's not just about answering questions but doing so concisely, clearly, and impactfully. NFL media thrives on soundbites and narratives. A well-crafted response can shape a player's public image, influence fan perception, and impact marketability. Conversely, a poorly handled question can lead to headlines for all the wrong reasons. Learning to anticipate the media's focus, whether a tough loss, a teammate's injury, or an upcoming rivalry game, allows individuals to prepare thoughtful, meaningful responses. This is about more than just surviving press conferences; it's about using the platform to tell their story, build their brand, and demonstrate leadership. In the modern NFL, media savvy is as important as any physical skill or tactical knowledge.
Message crafting
For athletes and agents, developing a straightforward personal narrative is crucial for building a strong public image and attracting opportunities. This means spotlighting your athletic strengths, competitive accomplishments, and career goals in a compelling way that sets you apart. Reflect on your most notable skills and victories - what makes you a formidable athlete? How have your past successes fueled your ambitions? Craft a powerful story that connects these dots, showing how your trajectory positions you for future success. Be authentic and specific, using vivid examples to bring your narrative to life. Practice delivering your story with confidence and clarity, whether in interviews, sponsor pitches, or social media. Remember, your narrative is your brand - invest in shaping a strong, positive one that opens doors and inspires fans.
Handling tough questions
As an athlete, you're not just a star on the field – you're also a public figure. That means facing tough questions from the media. With the right training, you can learn to respond gracefully under pressure. Media training teaches you how to handle challenging inquiries with confidence and poise. You'll learn to avoid controversial statements and stay focused on your key messages. Through practice and role-playing, you'll become comfortable thinking on your feet and delivering clear, concise responses. Media training also helps you understand the interviewer's perspective and use body language to your advantage. By mastering the art of media interviews, you can build a strong public image and take your career to the next level. Don't just excel at your sport – excel in the spotlight.
Soundbite delivery
Brevity is key. Media training teaches you to distill complex ideas into concise, punchy soundbites that stick in viewers' minds. It's about cutting through jargon and focusing on the core message you want to convey. With practice, you'll learn to anticipate the questions you'll face and prepare responses that hit all the essential points without getting bogged down in detail. The goal is to be clear, compelling, and quotable – to give the media the bite-sized insight they need to tell a gripping story. By mastering the art of the short, impactful answer, you can take control of the narrative and ensure your message resonates with the audience.
Body language and presentation
It's not just about crafting the perfect soundbite or avoiding controversy – it's also about non-verbal cues. Eye contact conveys honesty and confidence. Maintaining good posture shows respect for the interviewer and the audience. Facial expressions can reinforce a message or undermine it. By being mindful of these details, athletes can project a sense of professionalism that enhances their public image. Media training helps athletes master both the spoken word and the unspoken language of non-verbal communication, allowing them to navigate interviews with poise and authenticity.
During this 2024 NCAA College Football Season, there was a semi- “viral” moment in media training between an underclassman, a senior player, and a coach who displayed the benefit of media training and understanding the landscape of media, message crafting, handling tough questions, creating the soundbite, and overall presentation.
Here is that example featuring 2024 Minnesota Gophers Jah Joyner, Koi Perich, and Coach P.J. Fleck.
If you as an athlete, an agent/management team, or a combine athlete performance facility have not embedded media training in your NFL draft plan(s) and need additional assistance with doing so (or have general questions), reach out to us at create@brandsbybry.com.
-------------------------------------------------------------
DOWNLOAD YOUR A&R GUIDE CHECKLIST FOR ADDING BRAND WORKOUTS TO YOUR NFL DRAFT PLAN
Artists and repertoire or A&R oversee the artistic development of recording artists and songwriters. Brands By Bry is the authenticity and reputation (A&R) firm that oversees the brand development of athletes, agencies, and executives.
