2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Maalik Hall, OLB, Southeastern Oklahoma State

• Name: Maalik Hall
• Height: 6’1”
• Weight: 235 lbs.
• Position: OLB
• College: Southeastern Oklahoma State University
• Twitter: Ladrae_22
• Instagram: muuuh_leek

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?
My major is in Health and Human Performance, and I have a minor in Business. For 2 years, I have participated with the Black Student Association.

What do you think your teammates would say is your best quality?
I believe they would say I’m a good guy. I keep to myself, but I’m very approachable. I am a leader that players come to for advice such as diet. I am going into my 2nd season as team captain.

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
One of the things that separates me as an athlete is my versatility. I’ve mainly played on the outside as an edge rusher, but I have moved around within our defense. Sometimes I will come inside to play MLB. I’m often on the line with my hand in the dirt. I also have the speed to play in the slot as the nickel or drop back in coverage as a safety. Playing a 3-4 defense, we are heavy at stopping the run. We play fast and preach speed, always trying to get into the QB’s face in order to disrupt plays. I’ve also loved my time on special teams playing kickoffs. I’m happy to touch the field and make an impact for my team.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
Oklahoma Baptist has had a great offense. Preston Haire has led that team and really been one of the best offensive players in our conference. Their WRs have legit speed. Keilahn Harris has the ability to take the top off of defenses.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
We have a lot of great players on our team that are workhorses and push me to do better. Alexce Marshall is a fun player to watch on our DL. He’s a finesse player that uses his hands very well. QB Daulton Hatley is the leader of our offense. He’s a very competitive player that knows how to drive the ball down the field.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
Coming into college, I was 176 lbs and didn’t really look like I belonged. After my freshman season, I was almost ready to quit. I was about to hang up the cleats until I talked to my dad. He reminded me that I had made a promise to myself to play college football. So, I decided to start making a bigger commitment. Training with my dad, I fell in love with the gym. I got put on a diet plan that helped mold my body. The following year, I was then 210 lbs and on my way to where I wanted to be.

After 2018, we had a coaching change that really helped the momentum of our program. We went from a 1-10 team to 9-3. I owe a lot of my development to my strength coach, Zachary Fears, who pushed me to my limits and helped me get to a comfortable 235 lbs. That change really helped me dominate in 2021.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
Probably Track or Powerlifting. I held the record at my high school in the 400m at 47.9 before my brother broke it. I’ve had a lot of great strides in the weight room. Some of my personal bests include a 380 lb bench, 630 lb squat, 340 lb power clean and 600 lb deadlift.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement so far?
Last summer, I said that I wanted to be named All-Conference and an All-American. This past season, I was able to speak that into existence being First Team All-Conference and Honorable All-American as well as the Conference Defensive Player of the Year.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
During our game against Arkansas Tech in 2021, I remember coming off our sideline and really needing a sack. We were in a 4-man front, and I was playing DE. At the snap, the tackle in front of me shot his hands up, and I ran underneath him getting the sack.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
Definitely a fan of Von Miller. I watch his highlights before games and hope to be like him some day.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
Eminem is one of my favorite artists. His song “Lose Yourself” is a great song to listen to before a game.

What is your favorite comfort food?
Little Caesars Pepperoni Pizza

Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
Never Back Down is one of my favorite movies. Michael Jai White is an actor that I really like.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
I’m a musician. I play piano and make my own songs. I love working out and I also like coaching young athletes.

Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
Since Pop Warner, I’ve enjoyed competing with my older brother, and I train with him every summer. His passion carries on with me, and I strive to make it for both of us.