2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Alijah McGhee, DB, Minnesota State – Mankato

• Name: Alijah McGhee
• Position: Nickle/Corner 
• College: Minnesota State Mankato 
• Height: 6’2
• Weight: 195
• Twitter: @Mcghee1001
• Instagram: Its_me_mcghee 

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2023 NFL Draft?

My Length and athletic ability, combined with great coachability.  I feel like I’m a dominant player at any position in the secondary. I’m a physically bigger body who can play Man to Man. 

At what age were you first interested in the sport of football?

At the age of 5 is when I first was introduced to the game of football. 

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

I have great energy and work ethic. My positive demeanor spreads which feeds into my teammates which ultimately makes them better and the team better. I’m coachable and willing to do whatever for my team. 

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?

I would donate to any form of charity that relates to suicidal prevention, and child hunger. I feel like these are some things I am familiar with with previous situations throughout my life, so those causes are at the top for sure!

What is the best advice you have ever received?  

Control what you can control. There are so many outside factors that can dictate any situation, so being able to control the things you have power over is the main goal in life. Every action has a consequence. 

Who was your childhood hero?

My childhood hero was my mom of course. She sacrificed a lot so my siblings and I to be happy and want for nothing. Being the oldest I was able to watch my mom grow every day into a stronger woman. 

Who is the most underrated teammate in your locker room at your school?

I wouldn’t say underrated, but if I was to shine a spotlight on a teammate, it would definitely be my good buddy payton Conrad. Who plays safety for us, and who has my back each play ! 

What is your biggest pet peeve?

My biggest pet peeve is that I am a perfectionist. I hate being wrong and not being able to fix my mistake, it drives me to be a better player. 

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?

One of the hardest moments in my life to date would have to be the passing of my older brother, in 2018 I was a freshman in college and got the news. It was hard for me at first but with the help of God and prayer, I was able to shake back and go on to have a successful freshman year. 

Tell me something about your school and why it is so special to you?

Minnesota State welcomed me with open arms, being that I transferred in. The hospitality and culture is something that you can’t miss once you inside those Mankato walls! 

What is your favorite snack food?

Favorite snack food would be Big bag of candy and some Powerade. 

What is the best part of football?

Getting to play with your brothers day in and day out. Building a bond that will last a lifetime. 

If you could sell yourself in one sentence what would you say?

I will give you Everything I got no matter the outcome, no matter the situation. 

If you could compare your play to one player in the NFL who would it be?

I would like to say I have ball skills like Trevon Diggs, but like to be physical like Jalen Ramsey. 

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why?

Kobe Bryant for sure. He brings so much wisdom and that determination to be great. Jalen Ramsey because he’s the best corner in the league and has great competitive behavior. And 3rd I would say Ray Lewis. Ray has some of the most powerful messages, so if anyone can relate it’s these three.