NFL Draft

Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Ryan McGrath, OT, Ohio University

ryanDraft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Ryan McGrath, OT, Ohio University

How many teams were recruiting you out of high school?

If were to guess I would say about 10. I was from a really small school and wasn’t highly recruited. 

Where did you choose and why?

Ohio University because had a tremendous amount of respect for Coach Solich and offensive line coach Keven Lightner. I felt like they were going to turn the program around and they did. 

What were your goals for your senior year?

My goals were to win a MAC championship as well as get a bowl game win.

Have any scouts met with you, and if so what are they saying?

I met with several scouts they all say I have great size and they say that I play physical and move well.

At your position, what separates you from the others?

Run blocking. I’m a physical guy on the field. I really try to hit the opponent with as much force as possible.

Tell us what you look for when breaking down film?

Footwork, leverage and hands. I make sure I take the correct steps and angles for my blocks. Then I look at hand placement. I always want the hands on the opponents chest and never outside.

Who was the toughest player you have ever faced?

Khalil Mack. 

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

Anthony Munoz was a great player. He was a lean athletic tackle and most importantly he was very physical and tough. I always tried to emulate his athleticism and physical/tough nature.

What was the biggest obstacle in your life you had to overcome, and how did you overcome it?

Breaking my leg last game of my junior year was really tough for me. My tibia and fibula was completely broken the doctor said it was going to be 4/6 months until I would be fully cleared. That only left me about 2.5 months to train for a whole season. The team needed me and I played in all of fall camp and the season. I wasn’t 100 percent this year but I still managed to have a good season. Currently I’m ready to go and am 100 percent. I am really fortunate to have a great family. They were a huge part in helping me keep a positive mind set through the whole experience.



What system fits your style of play the best?

I fit well in to zone scheme because I can move well and I block well in space. I also think I can fit into a pro style power scheme because I have the size and good strength and long arms and good feet to be a good pass blocker.

What is your biggest strength?

Physicality.

What is your biggest weakness?

Cut blocking. I didn’t do it much in college but in time I think I can get it down

If I were a GM and gave you a second to sell yourself, what would you say?

I am a hard worker, everyday I try to get better. I don’t take plays off I go to the whistle. I am coachable, I’m adaptable, and I will do what I got to do to get on the field. I’m physical, I love to hit people.

Growing up, who was your role model?

My grandma. She is the strongest  person I know. She lost her husband at a very young age and she raised 4 children on her own. During her life she also lost 2 of her own kids. Throughout all of that she is still going strong and is a great grandma/ mother and role model. 

Damond Talbot

NFL Draft Diamonds was created to assist the underdogs playing the sport. We call them diamonds in the rough. My name is Damond Talbot, I have worked extremely hard to help hundreds of small school players over the past several years, and will continue my mission. We have several contributors on this site, and if they contribute their name and contact will be in the piece above. You can email me at nfldraftdiamonds@gmail.com

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