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2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Hunter Nichols, DB, San Diego

Hunter Nichols the defensive back from San Diego recently sat down with Evan Willsmore from NFL Draft Diamonds.
Hunter Nichols the defensive back from San Diego recently sat down with Evan Willsmore from NFL Draft Diamonds.
  • Name: Hunter Nichols
  • Position: Safety/Kick Returner
  • Height: 6’0″
  • Weight: 193 lbs
  • School: University of San Diego
  • Level: Division I FCS – Pioneer League
  • Twitter: hunternichols21
  • Instagram: hunterr_6ix

Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?

Major: Business Administration

Minor: Real Estate

I love being a student at USD.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?

My effort – I come to practice with energy and every rep I go 100 percent. Haven’t missed a game since I started. 

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?

I see myself as a defensive leader going into my fifth season. Trying to get back to the playoffs. Love being in cover 1 as a high safety even though we don’t run it often. Also a kick/punt returner on special teams. 

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?

Adam Trautman, TE, Dayton (now with the Saints) – quick for his size and had to double team him during the game 

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?

Amir Wallace – a guy I trust having on my side of the ball. Fearless and lockdown corner.

Derek Cline – tight end who has a huge role in the receiving game 

David Ambagtsheer – most consistent tackler, great combination of speed and strength 

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.

When my parents split up for a year – my dad moved into an apartment and rarely saw him. 

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?

Baseball would be my top choice. 

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?

My biggest achievement is playing Division I football. Starting as a freshman later on in the season and having started every game since then is something not a lot of players do. 

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.

First game of junior season – also first time being a kick returner in college. Took it 62 yards and realized I could have a role in this part of the game. 

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?

Favorite pro team: Dallas Cowboys (dad grew up watching them)

Tyrann Mathieu – fearless at the safety position. Shorter player who lines up in the box.

Jessie Bates – continues to be underrated in the NFL, especially with his cover 1 ability. 

What gets you “pumped up” before a game?

Anything music wise – rap, R&B, etc. 

Love to dance before the game, whatever is playing in the headphones or over the loudspeaker during warmups 

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?

I love to play video games and workout. My sister owns a gym. I try to do 100 pushups every day, don’t reach that goal all of the time though.  

Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?

My dad played football his whole life. I got into football at a very young age because of him. 

My mom inspires me the most – she was working multiple jobs to help my siblings and I out. 

Other notes:

High school – didn’t get a lot of playing time as a freshman, wanted to quit and ended up transferring to Calabasas. Sophomore year I played JV, Junior/senior played varsity. Junior year was the most successful. Only offer from high school was USD – I would have gone there anyway even if there was more offers. Didn’t get along with the coach at first, but eventually “won him over” after sticking on the scout team. Moved up to second-string for the first time, but didn’t feel confident about the game plan. Ended up starting the last four games including playoffs against Nicholls State. Started all of sophomore year. Honorable mention Pioneer League. Junior year was the COVID year, best season due to kick returns. First-team Pioneer League kick returner. Got a hip injury week 3 or 4 senior season – still started every game with a numbing shot. Honorable mention Pioneer League. 

Evan Willsmore

18 y/o writer and scout - just trying to give players an opportunity and the recognition they deserve. Fan of all things football.

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