Written in the Stars - Q&A with DE Patrick Isbell

Patrick Isbell from the Frankfurt Universe answers a few questions for SFFrenzy ahead of 2022

SpringFootballFrenzy had the opportunity to sit down with Patrick Isbell, formerly of the GFL1’s Frankfurt Universe. Isbell comes off a championship won in the ELF for the Galaxy. The 6’1, 250 pound pass-rusher from Arizona gave us some insight on playing American Football overseas. He also spoke about his high school and collegiate careers, life outside of football and more!

SFF: At what point in your high school career (at Mountain Pointe in Arizona) did you decide to pursue football at the collegiate level?

Patrick: “My time at Mountain Pointe was awesome, at one point in my senior year we were ranked in the top ten in the USA. I realized my junior season going into my season year that I could be special, I attended a couple football camps, one at Arizona State University and the other at Northern Arizona University and I’m not being conceded but I was unblockable at these two football camps, going against 3 and 4 star o-linemen and I dominated them but unfortunately I was struggling with my grades and that is why I went the JUCO route”

SFF: Go through what it was like playing at Gila River Community College, as well as Salt River Junior College:

Patrick: “Playing in the HJCAC was challenging, the talent in that league is high level. When I played for the Gila River Hawks, the practices were sometimes harder than the games, it was good versus good every practice, a bunch of D-1 level talent, great coaching staff. We won the HJCAC championship in 2020 and ended up being ranked the #18 JUCO team in America.”

SFF: Going overseas to play American Football seemed like a fantastic and unique opportunity. What do you remember most about traveling and being in a foreign country?

Patrick: “I enjoyed traveling overseas, now at first I was a little nervous because I have never traveled abroad before but the people with the Frankfurt Universe organization treated me and the other imports great, they took care of us, the Frankfurt Universe is a first class organization. Being with the Frankfurt Galaxy in the ELF (I was actually with the Frankfurt Universe of the GFL1, I enjoyed my time there, I came in half way through the season, played in 5 games and was injured for 1 game. I thought I played at a high level, a lot of talent in the GFL1 it just confirmed that I could play. We also were able to keep the Frankfurt Universe in the GFL1 for 2022 season so that was a good achievement”

SFF: With season 1 in the books, is the goal to get back into the ELF for season 2?

Patrick: “I’m hoping to get picked up by an ELF team for 2022, I am training hard right now in Phoenix Arizona and I believe I will be a difference maker on a defense? I know I have the talent and drive to be a dominant player.”

SFF: Talk to us about Pro Level Sports Agency and what they’ve been able to do for you both on and off the field Outside of football

Patrick: “I have been signed with Pro Level for approx. 45 days, they are actively working with me to get me signed, their team is very professional and knowledgeable about this process, I know they will assist me in getting signed in a good situation.”

SFF: What other hobbies or interests are you into?

Patrick: “l’m a gym rat, I’m always working on my craft, my goals are high so I enjoy the process and the grind to reach those goals. Also family is big with me as well.”

SFF: Any thoughts on playing football back in the states if the opportunity were to present itself to you?

Patrick: “I will never say never, it would have to be the right opportunity. I see all these other spring leagues starting up so that is cool. I just want to go out and compete against the best.”

SpringFootballFrenzy thanks Patrick Isbell for giving a few moments of his time to chat with us. As 2022 approaches at the speed of light, Isbell is hopeful to be in the ELF next year. Give him a follow on Twitter (@patrickisbell_) to keep up with his football journey!