2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Gavin Pringle, DB, Bucknell University

• Name: Gavin Pringle
• Position: DB
• College: Bucknell University
• Height: 6’0″
• Weight: 180 lbs
• Twitter: @gavinpringle_
• Instagram: @gavinpringle

What sets you apart from other defensive backs?

I have the ability to play every position in the secondary and I have even gotten reps at the Rover position. My coaches have put me wherever they have needed me most and I have had success at every position. I also am a physical DB and have the ability to make tackles in any situation.

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

After my first year of playing recreational football, I played so badly that my father decided he wasn’t going to allow me to play the next year. Having him try to take the game away from me helped me realize how passionate I was about it at such a young age. Ever since then I’ve been dedicated to being the best player I can be.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

If I could hang out with any football player for a day it would be Denzel Ward. He’s been one of my favorite DBs in the league for a while now and I like the way he competes. I would take the time to pick his brain and understand how he breaks down certain things and situations. Being a smaller guy in the NFL forces you to focus on the little things and I think he is a good example of doing so.

What type of energy do you bring onto the football field?

I bring physicality, intelligence, and leadership every time I step onto the field. I’m a strong believer in setting the tone early whether it’s in practice or in a game. Im very passionate and competitive so my goal is to win in whatever it is that I’m doing.

How do you prepare for games?

Throughout the week I go through all of the film that we have on the other team. I take the time to notice tendencies of the people that I will be matched up against. I use our game plan for the week and apply that to the film that I’m watching and picture how it will play out if I was on the field. I also make sure that I’m eating right and staying hydrated throughout the week. These things allow me to play freely and execute in the game.

What should we know about Gavin Pringle the person?

I believe that I’m a loving and caring person. I want everyone around me to be happy and as successful as possible. Every day I try to have a positive impact on someone in some type of way. My goal is always to push those around me to be the best versions of themselves.

What do you think are the keys to success on the football field?

Effort, discipline, and accountability. Everyone on the field has to be disciplined and on the same page in order to execute. What you may lack in skill or size you can make up for it by giving maximum effort. All successful programs have players that hold each other accountable and push one another to be the best that they can be. I believe that if you have these three things you are on track to being very successful.

What is your favorite coverage and why?

My favorite coverage is Cover 0. I like this coverage because it allows you to see where you are as a player. You are put on an island with no help, just you vs your man.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I handle things differently based on whatever the situation is. A lot of times I like to take the time to just think things through and go from there. I’m a firm believer in the saying that “everything happens for a reason”. Whatever the challenge is whether it’s on the field or off, there is always a solution and the only way to find it is if you are patient and take your time to think things through.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get someone who is dedicated to being the best player on the field. I’m hardworking, a leader, determined, and very coachable. The best players have the ability to adapt to any given situation and I believe I have proved that over the years by being a versatile player and having the ability to play different positions at a moments notice. I believe that I’m someone who can do it all.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

Winning. I base my success off of how well the team does and how everyone around me improves. We have a championship caliber team at Bucknell, we just have to go out and execute. This upcoming season is all about proving that we have the ability to compete against anybody they put on front of us. My overall focus is the team but personally I want to go out and prove to myself that I’m one of the best defensive backs in the country.

If there was a billboard with 5 of your traits on it which 5 traits would be up there?

1. Dedicated 2. Coachable 3. Versatile/ Adaptable 4. Team-oriented 5. Leader