NFL Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Vernel Wingate, WR, Southwest Minnesota State

What is your name?

Vernel Wingate

What is your Height/Weight?

6”5 220

What is your position?

Wide receiver

Where do you play college football?

Southwest Minnesota State

Where are you from?

Detroit, Michigan

Who is your role model, and why?

Myself in 10 years; because everyday of my life my hero is going to be ten years away. It’s possible I could never obtain that, but it’s fine, because it gives me someone to keep on chasing.

Did you play any other sports growing up?

Basketball, Soccer, Baseball

Who was the toughest player you ever faced?

Honestly no name rings a bell. I feel like there’s some good players out there, but I seem to maintain in 1 on 1 man coverage

What is the one song that would fire you up before the biggest game of your life?

Ace Hood – Get to me

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

Julio Jones, he’s physical, fast for his size & also catches the ball away from his body & can take a hit in traffic just as well  as I

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

The Biggest obstacle I faced was obtaining a degree at a four year university while playing football, working two jobs at a hospital & a home care residents; also an internship pertaining to my major that requires work as if it was a part time job. Sounds impossible but I for sure got it done. Through hard work; discipline & dedication.

Do you have any pre-game rituals?

I usually pray & call or FaceTime my son before the game. It gives me sanity before I go to war and destroy my opponent.

What was the most memorable play of your collegiate career?

The first game I played in the season; it was against Moorhead. My first two completions were two touchdowns.

What is the coolest thing you ever did off the field for someone else?

I Purchased a hotel room for a homeless guy; his wife and two children for the weekend at the local Ramada hotel.

Who was your favorite NFL team growing up?

I Always been a believer in my home town the Detroit Lions, but I also was a fan of the Green Bay Packers; If that make sense .

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would you choose?

Tupac, Muhammad Ali & Bob Marley all these men were passionate & stood for something.