2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Amir Wallace, CB, San Diego
- Name: Amir Wallace
- Height: 6’1”
- Weight: 185 lbs.
- Position: CB
- College: University of San Diego
- Twitter: Amir_wallace22
- Instagram: Amirnwallace
Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
I am majoring in Engineering with an Independent plan of studies and a Concentration in Physics. I’ve also participated with the Black Student Union as well as the NSBE (National Society of Black Engineers).
What do your teammates say is your best quality?
I set the tone in how I play. I lead by example and a lot of guys follow me. I’m respected as a competitor. I work hard and don’t complain.
What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
I have strictly been a corner, usually staying on the opponent’s side of the field although have occasionally followed the #1 WR. I have good cover 2 skills, understanding route concepts and having the ability to react well to plays. I have developed a trust with the coaches who have allowed me to implement press coverage, using my size to my advantage and disrupting the timing on throws. I elevate my game when time comes. I like being aggressive and hitting people. I want to make sure the opponent feels pressured. I’m also able to affect the run game and get TFLs. I believe I’m a good tackler.
I’ve also been very involved with special teams, playing gunner on the outside and inside on punts, being on both sides of kickoff coverage and occasionally playing the off returner. I’m also good at FG blocks.
Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
Morehead State WR BJ Byrd. He was the offensive player of our league and a stud. I matched up against him. He’s a competitor, and we had our battles.
Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
Michael Hawkins was a huge impact for our team. He started as a corner and eventually moved to safety. He ended up a 2-time First Team All-League. He had my back and made several great plays.
Hunter Nichols brings a lot of energy to our defense. He goes 100% all the time, every day. He has the best hands on our defense. He’s very instinctive, always gets to the ball and isn’t afraid to tackle.
Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
I don’t have the most dramatic struggle story. My transition to college was somewhat of a struggle. Getting used to the day-to-day took some time. Coming into the team as a freshman, I was low on the depth chart and had to eventually wait my turn. I even went to the coaches and asked them what I need to do in order to get on the field. I just had to put my head down and get to work.
My twin brother and I were both recruited to USD. He actually got the start before me. I was very frustrated and even thought about transferring. After I finally touched the field, I actually got 2 picks in the game.
If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
I would definitely run track. I started running track at 11 years old and ran up through high school. In middle school, I went to Nationals twice. I placed 2nd in the 800m as well as 2nd in the 1500 in the Junior Olympics. I switched to running the hurdles in high school, having a personal best of 14.7 in the 110m hurdles and 40.12 in the 300 hurdles.
What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I’m most proud of being the first D1 collegiate athlete in my family, and that I will soon be a graduate. One of my biggest accomplishments is owning my own car.
Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
My most memorable moment was my first college touchdown. We were playing against Presbyterian during the 2021 Spring Season. The game had just started. It was 2nd and 10 from their 20. The QB dropped back, the WR ran a 10 yard out, and as the QB threw behind the receiver, I ripped the ball out of his hands. I was able to celebrate in the endzone with my brother.
Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
My favorite football team is the Philadelphia Eagles. Ed Reed is my favorite safety, and Charles Woodson my favorite corner. I also like watching guys like Champ Bailey and Darrelle Revis. Jaylen Ramsey is a player I like to watch in today’s game. He plays very aggressively and lets you know he’s there.
Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
My favorite music artist is Tee Grizzley. Before a game, I like to listen to “Dreams and Nightmares” by Meek Mill.
What is your favorite comfort food?
My mom’s fried chicken, yams and mac & cheese.
Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
My favorite TV show is Boondocks. Stomp the Yard is one of my favorite movies.
What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
I like to exercise. I like physical activity whether I’m outside running or playing basketball. I like to play video games like Call of Duty, 2K and Madden. I read a lot of books about the human body. This is one of the websites I like to follow: https://www.westside-barbell.com/.
Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
I play because I love it. I have a passion for football. I think about it every day. Getting paid would be a plus. Getting paid to do something you love is what everyone wants to do.
I play for myself, yet I also don’t want to let people down. I want to make my family happy. They are excited when they are able to see me play. If me playing football brings them joy, then I’m going to try and play as long as possible.
Assistant Director of Scouting for the Hula Bowl and long-time writer for NFL Draft Diamonds.