2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: De’Queze Fryer, TE, LaGrange

• Name: De’Queze Fryer
• Position: Tight End
• Height: 6’2.5″
• Weight: 235 lbs
• School: LaGrange College
• Level: Division III – USA South Conference
• Twitter: thebigrig821
• Instagram: kingdfryer

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?

Major: Political Science

Minor: Criminology

Extracurriculars: I am a presidential ambassador and a member of the black student union. I also participate in the student athlete committee. 

What do your teammates say is your best quality?

Most people say that I’m a leader in multiple ways – both verbally and physically. I am also a role model on the field and in the classroom. 

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?

My role is based a lot on the coaches – whatever they trust me with doing I am capable of doing.

I’m best at tight end when I’m flexed out – creating mismatches for linebackers and smaller cornerbacks. 

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?

Fred Flavors, DB, Huntingdon College – All-American 

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?

Klynell Johnson, DB 

What makes you different from others at your position? 

I believe that myself as a person makes me different which is bigger than football – I’m a very caring individual

Humbly, I’m a freak on the field. First and last out of the building every day as well.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.

Towards the end of my high school career, I had an offer from another school that was a great fit but a bit far away from home. I am always big on family so I needed to explore other options. LaGrange didn’t accept me right away, and when they eventually did they claimed there was a mistake with the test scores and that I wasn’t eligible. I had to learn how to get good grades while being at a junior college and working out/staying ready. 

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?

I would probably try basketball and competitive sport fishing as well. 

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?

I am proud of making it into LaGrange and understanding their standards as a student. All-Conference academics and All-American on the field. 

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.

Our starting quarterback was hurt late in the game – we had a freshman quarterback come in to take his place. We ran the ball 3 times at the goal line, on fourth and goal I scored with one foot down in the endzone. It stands out because I was double-teamed on the last down. 

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?

Favorite athlete: George Kittle (formerly Adrian Peterson)

Favorite team: Los Angeles Rams (mostly because of OBJ)

I model my game after Shannon Sharpe, Antonio Gates, and Travis Kelce. 

What gets you “pumped up” before a game?

Any type of music or even a beat can help me out – just thinking about the game gives me enough energy as it is. 

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?

I love to fish (bass, catfish, crappie) and play the drums a little bit. 

Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?

When I was younger I tried it out at the recreational level, the coaches really spoke to me and it made me want to go further. 

What do you want NFL teams to know about you? 

I’m a very hard worker, I’m hungry, and I’m humble. I need someone to take a chance on me that they won’t regret. 

Other notes:

Blocking at the DIII level is different – in the NFL I view myself more as the “big slot” hybrid tight end/receiver. Scouted by Bills and Buccaneers representatives. Also is in the circles of Bears and Cowboys general managers.