2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Tanner Taula, TE, Illinois State University

• Name: Tanner Taula
• Position: TE
• College: Illinois State University
• Height: 6’6″
• Weight: 255 lbs
• Twitter: @tannertaula

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

I’ve been playing football for as long as I can remember. I remember always playing in my backyard when I was little and making up scenarios in my head and scoring the craziest touchdowns. I think I fell in love with it as a little kid and just continued to play and love it as I’ve grown older.

What sets you apart from other tight ends?

I think there’s a few different things that set me a part from other tight ends. My mentality and attitude have allowed me to take criticism and improve every month. Coming into college, I was horrible at blocking. I’ve made big strides and have improved as a blocker but will continue to become a better blocker. I’ve always had a goal of being as good of a blocker as the o-line and as good of a receiver as our receivers.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

I think a lot of my teammates are underrated. I’d probably have to go with Bryson Demming, the other tight end with me here at Illinois State. He’s taught me a lot of things from different techniques in the run game, setting up route running in different ways, and in leadership skills.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Growing up, my dad was one of the coaches. I remember when we won the little league super bowl I ran straight over to him and celebrated with him. That was a special moment I’ll always remember. High school football had so many good memories, but my favorite was scoring my first varsity touchdown at our home opener and the crowd went crazy. Last year our secretary, Pam, passed away mid-season. We went on the road to a ranked South Dakota team and won. It felt good to get a good team win and dedicate that win to her.

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

Definitely Travis Kelce. I’m from Independence, which is right outside Kansas City, and have always been a Chiefs fan. Kelce the best to ever do it at the tight end position and seems like a fun guy to be around.

How do you prepare for games?

I like to watch film and learn about the defense we’re facing as a whole and also specifically look at the matchups I’ll have in the run game and in the pass game. I also do a lot of visualization and run through our plays against all the possible different defenses we could see in my head, friday night.

What should we know about Tanner Taula the person?

I’ve recently found Christ and my life’s been changing for the better ever since I put my faith Jesus.

What is your favorite route and why?

I’d probably say a whip route. Any route against man is fun but I feel like I can create more separation with a whip route.

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

I handle challenges by getting advice and wisdom from older people. On the field that looks like asking coaches or other teammates. Off the field that looks like talking to my parents or other mentors.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get a team player who’s committed to winning. I do what’s asked of me and then some. I’m not a guy who’s worried about my own success or stats. I’m more concerned with winning championships. They would also be getting a tight end who’s gonna put his hand in the dirt and have a positive impact in the run game as well as a tight end who can be split out and positively impact the pass game.

What are you looking to achieve in your upcoming season?

I want to win a conference championship and a national championship. I’m excited for this year. I think we’re a lot better than people will expect we are because we ended last year at 4-7. I’m also excited to open the season at Wisconsin and have an opportunity to upset a power 5 team.

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

I’m not a big get in your face type of dude. I like to be out there relaxed and have fun.