Chat with former Texas DT Frank Okam

Okam led Texas in sacks in 2007, recording five from his interior line position. He finished his career with 10 sacks. He also finished with 28 tackles for a loss, including 11 in his senior year, which was second on the team.
Okam played in all but one game in his four years. After his senior season, he was named a third-team All-America selection by The Associated Press. He was recognized as one of the best lineman in the country by being a member of the Bednarik Award, Lombardi Award and Outland Trophy watch lists. In his career, he was a three-time All-Big 12 selection.
According to Okam's Scouts Inc.'s draft profile, Okam's "upside is nearly limitless. In addition to a massive frame, he flashes the mobility and power to dominate the interior. However, much like Michigan's Alan Branch, who dropped out of [last] year's first round, Okam's motor is too inconsistent."
Send in your questions now, then join Okam on Friday at 2:30 p.m. ET!
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Frank Okam (2:28 PM)
Hey everyone, hope everything is going well.
Brad (Gadsden,Alabama)
Frank, What NFL DT do you compare yourself to?
Frank Okam (2:28 PM)
After looking at some film of some guys, I'd say I'm a John Henderson-type or Warren Sapp in his heyday.
Ken (California)
Frank, what do you think you need to work on the most to succeed in the NFL?
Frank Okam (2:29 PM)
I think the most important thing is applying proper leverage to the top offensive linemen, and using your hands correctly. Everything happens so fast that you have to be able to use your body well in order to dominate.
JC (AUSTIN, TX)
Frank, Why do they call you "The Nightmare"?
Frank Okam (2:30 PM)
When I was a freshmen during two-a-days, one of our tackles called me an offensive lineman's nightmare. Ever since then, it all kinda stuck.
John (Ohio)
Frank, do you prefer a 3-4 or 4-3 defense?
Frank Okam (2:31 PM)
I haven't played both, but I think I'd be successful in either one. My only preference, really, is to be out on the field and playing.
Hilt (Lancaster,PA)
What NFL QB would you most like to put a big hit on as a rookie???
Frank Okam (2:31 PM)
Vince Young, only because in practice at Texas, they never let me touch him.
Gemma (Arkansas)
How was the combine?
Frank Okam (2:32 PM)
It's definitely an experience. You get tested in every facet of your game-mentally, psychologically, physically. The ultimate goal is to determine which guys they want to go after. If you handle the weekend fine, you've helped yourself.
Larry (Charlotte)
How much fun was it playing in the BCS title game against USC?
Frank Okam (2:33 PM)
Honestly, the greatest game I've ever played. Being able to say you've tackled two Heisman Trophy players---it was amazing how much talent was on that field at once. It was a really great feeling.
Jake (Philly)
what are your draft day plans?
Frank Okam (2:34 PM)
Probably to go to Dallas with my family and hang out, and just wait on that phone call. Just to try to enjoy it, because when you get down to it, you're one of the few guys who has the chance to compete at this level.
Kyle (Kansas)
what's your favorite place to eat in Austin?
Frank Okam (2:34 PM)
There's a lot of different spots. A lot of great foods and different varities. The best place for Italian food down there is Carrino's.
Shelly (Boston)
What are you doing from now until the draft?
Frank Okam (2:35 PM)
Right now, I'm still working out. I'll be working for teams in a week. I've already graduated, so working out is my job right now.
Fred (Atlanta)
What's the best part about Texas?
Frank Okam (2:36 PM)
Knowing every weekend you'll get everyone's best, and being able to say you're practicing with one of the best programs. Austin is a great city, and the coaching staff is great.
Stu (Providence, RI)
What will be the first thing you buy with your first NFL paycheck:?
Frank Okam (2:36 PM)
Depends on how big the check is! I've never had a car in my life, so I'd probably get a vehicle of some sort so I could get around town.
Jordan (Philly)
Would it bother you playing somewhere cold like Green Bay or Buffalo???
Frank Okam (2:37 PM)
No. I tend not to get tired in the cold, so hopefully it'll hold true in the NFL. Cold games are those that linemen dream about because everyone is so physical, and the feeling and look of the game is amazing.
Jake V (Syracuse, NY)
Why should you be drafted?
Frank Okam (2:39 PM)
First and foremost, you're getting a good character guy, one who takes pride in what he does on and off the field. You also have a very talented guy who hasn't fully reached his potential, has a very high ceiling, and will get better every year. You have a guy who wants to get better every game and will help take a defense to the next level.
Frank Okam (2:39 PM)
Thanks for all the questions, I hope I answered them well!
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