2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Tanner McCalister, DB, Ohio State University

• Name: Tanner McCalister
• Position: Safety/Nickel/CB 
• College: The Ohio State University 
• Height: 5’11 
• Weight: 195 
• Twitter: @McCalister_dos2 
• Instagram: @TannerMcCalister 

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2023 NFL Draft? 

My versatility and leadership as a defensive back. I have the skill set to play many different positions in the back end. I also love to contribute wherever I can which is why I love special teams as well. 

At what age were you first interested in the sport of football?

Age 7 is when I started playing football.

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you? 

I am a competitor who loves to get better. I understand constructive criticism can improve my game, so I listen when it is given. I am a player you will never have to worry about being late or unaccountable. I love football.

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?

I would donate to communities that are populated with people in poverty. I understand everyone isn’t brought into the world with the same opportunities.

What is the best advice you have ever received? 

You must invest in yourself before you can invest in anything else. 

Who was your childhood hero? 

Lebron James

Who is the most underrated teammate in your locker room at your school? 

CB Cameron Brown

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

I don’t have one

Tell me something about your school and why it is so special to you? 

The Ohio State University is full of winning, successful traditions. I am blessed to be a contributor of that tradition and legacy many great players have set. 

What is your favorite snack food? 

Grapes.

What is the best part of football? 

Football forces you to work in a team dynamic relying on all 11 players to execute their individual tasks. Hardest sport to consistently win in my opinion.

If you could sell yourself in one sentence what would you say? 

My ability to stay adaptable, execute, receive critical feedback, communicate, and compete is what will set me apart from any competition I face.

If you could compare your play to one player in the NFL who would it be? 

I would say Kenny Moore (Colts) or Gardner-Johnson (Saints. 

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why? 

1. Lebron James- generational talent and person
2. Drake- is consistently the best at what he loves to do 
3. Robert Kiyosaki- multi-millionaire investor and author.