2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Cully Curran, DB, Framingham State University

• Name: Cully Curran
• Position: DB
• College: Framingham State University
• Height: 5’11”
• Weight: 205 lbs
• Twitter: @CullyCurran
• Instagram: @cullycurran1_

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

I was first attracted to football because of the violent nature of the sport. The older I got the more I fell in love with the process of what it takes to become successful on game day. The countless hours preparing myself in the weight room, on the field, and watching film give me a level of satisfaction like no other when I make big plays.

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

I would say Ed Reed because if you watch how he played the game he is constantly one step ahead of the offense. Playing the same position as him I would love to pick his brain on his approach to all aspects of his game. I would especially like to see how he breaks film down and how he is able to slow the game down so much for himself.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My favorite football moment was winning the league championship last season. That was very special to not only me but to everyone involved in the Framingham State football program. Our Head Coach was put in a very tough position to start the season. He was forced to come out of retirement 10 days prior to the camp starting with basically no coaching staff assembled but through his leadership we were able to fight through tons of adversity and win the league championship. The adversity we faced really made the championship mean so much more.

What is your favorite coverage and why?

Cover zero, man to man, with the front seven sending pressure is my favorite. I know the ball has to come out quick and this gives me an opportunity for a take away.

What do you think are the keys to success on the football field?

There are three things that are essential to my success on the field. First is preparation, I outwork my opponent all off season then study enough film to catch onto certain tendencies. I have half the battle won before the ball is even kicked off. The second is communication, this is huge for me because I need to make sure my teammates and coaches are all on the same page before each play. If a single person on the defense isn’t aligned correctly or doesn’t know their responsibility the entire unit pays the price and mental hiccups are unacceptable for any defense trying to play at an elite level. The third is intensity, I need to get myself to a level of intensity prior to kickoff and keep that level throughout the entire game where I can elevate everyone around me. You aren’t always going to be in the perfect position during a game but you can fix a lot of those problems with aggression.

What should we know about Cully Curran the person?

I pride myself on my work ethic. I believe this has been essential for my success on the field but it will allow me to be successful long after my playing days are over.

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

I am a high energy player who knows how to elevate my teammates. The saying “you are only as strong as your weakest link” sounds cliche but it is the truth. If I can’t get my teammates onto my intensity level while we’re on the field, in my eyes, I have failed as a leader.

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

Nick Ashley is a player who doesn’t get the recognition he deserves. He is an outside linebacker for us but his versatility allows us to use him in many different ways. He is great blitzing off the edge but he is also great playing coverage in the pass game.

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

Life, like football, isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. I stay positive, work hard, and stay true to who I am. I believe those are the most important things in being a productive person through the ups and downs on and off the field.

What would a team get in a player like you?

I am an extension of the coaching staff on the field. I play with a high motor and intensity level that lets me be successful no matter the circumstances.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

I am excited to really put my ability on display and dominate opponents this season. I am also excited to see my teammates who have worked hard to improve their game be successful this year.

What are you looking to improve the most this season?

I am looking to improve my ability to jump routes when in coverage. I’ve always been able to identify route combinations quickly, now I want to capitalize even more and increase the amount of turnovers I get for my team.