2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Malik Thomas, RB, Central Connecticut State University

• Name: Malik Thomas 
• Position: Running Back 
• College: Central Connecticut State University 
• Height: 6’1
• Weight: 205lbs
• Twitter: Malik_Thomas_Jr
• Instagram: Malik_Thomas_Jr

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

I believe I am a top running back prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft because of my combination of athleticism, football IQ, and work ethic. I am a physical runner who is able to use my vision, agility and power to be successful when running with the ball. I have a great understanding of the game and am able to recognize and exploit defensive weaknesses. I also work hard on and off the field, always striving to be the best running back I can be. I am confident that I can make an immediate impact on whatever team drafts me and be a reliable weapon in the backfield.

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

I joined football at the age of 16 and it was one of the best decisions I ever made. It boosted my confidence, gave me a sense of camaraderie, and helped me to make some lifelong friends. Being on the team gave me a sense of pride and accomplishment, and it taught me the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Most importantly, I learned how to manage my time better and to be more organized.

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

I am extremely passionate about the game of football and I strive to work hard and be successful at whatever I do. I am a team player, have a great work ethic, and am willing to go the extra mile to help my team achieve success.

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

I would donate to a cause that works to end global poverty. Poverty affects so many people around the world and there are so many organizations out there that are dedicated to helping end poverty and providing assistance to those in need. By donating to such a cause, I would be contributing to something that is making a meaningful difference in the lives of people all over the world.

What is the best advice you have ever received? 

The best advice I have ever received is to always be true to yourself and stay true to your values.

Who was your childhood hero? 

My childhood heroes were my mom and dad. They taught me important values and skills, provided me with unconditional love and support, and inspired me to be the best version of myself.

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

One of the most underrated teammates in our locker room is probably our safety Anthony Wynn. He’s one of the most hardworking players on the team and is always looking to improve his game, but doesn’t get the same recognition as some of the other players on the team. He’s an important part of our defense and deserves more recognition for all he does.

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

My biggest pet peeve is when people are consistently late or unreliable. 

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

My grandmother was an incredibly important person in my life. She was my rock, my mentor, and my favorite person to talk to. When she passed away, it felt like a huge part of me had died. I went through a period of deep grief, anger, and depression. It felt like I had lost my anchor, my source of stability. I was scared to move forward without her. But over time, I was able to find strength in her memory, and I started to find ways to honor her in my everyday life. I kept her spirit alive by turning to her for advice, and by doing small things to remember her. I found that the best way to cope with her loss was to focus on the good memories and the love she gave me rather than the sadness of her passing. This allowed me to eventually move forward and still keep her close in my heart.

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

My school is very special to me because it is such a tight-knit community. Everyone is so friendly and supportive in the school and it really creates a sense of belonging. Not only that, but the academic standards are held very high and I am constantly challenged and pushed to do my best. It’s a great environment to be in and I’m proud to be a part of it.

What is your favorite snack food? 

My favorite snack food is Utz honey wheat pretzel twists

What is the best part of football? 

The best part of football is the atmosphere. From pre-game warmups to the excitement of the crowd on gameday, there’s nothing like being part of a football atmosphere. The energy and passion felt by everyone in the stadium is truly something special.

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

I am an ambitious and hardworking individual with a passion for learning and pushing myself to achieve success.

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

I would compare my play to Adrian Peterson of the Vikings. He is a leader on and off the field. He is a great decision-maker and is able to extend plays with his mobility and athleticism. He also has great accuracy and arm strength that allows him to make big plays. He is a great example of a player who has achieved success through hard work and dedication.

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

I would be grateful to have dinner with my grandma, grandpa and oldest sister. It would be a special occasion for me because I don’t often get to spend time with them. I would love to talk about their lives, their experiences and the things that have been important to them throughout the years. I would also love to hear the stories that they have to tell about my family’s history and how their lives have been intertwined with each other. It would be an amazing opportunity to learn more about my family and to share some of my own stories with them. I know it would be a night that I would always remember.