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2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Isaiah Norman, DB, Marshall University

 Isaiah Norman the standout defensive back from Marshall University recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds writer Justin Berendzen.
Isaiah Norman the standout defensive back from Marshall University recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds writer Justin Berendzen.
  • Name: Isaiah Norman
  • Position: DB
  • College: Marshall University
  • Height: 6’1″
  • Weight: 205 lbs
  • Twitter: @IsaiahNorman15
  • Instagram: @_ijn_08

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

I wanted to be like my dad. I fell in love with the game and dedicated myself to one day be on a NFL roster.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

When I made and played in the Memphis all star team my senior year in high school. When I committed and signed a full scholarship to attend Austin Peay State University to play football there. When we won the OVC conference championship in 2019, the 2nd conference championship in school history. Being apart of history like that is indescribable. My last is when I transferred here to Marshall. When we beat the #8 ranked Notre Dame in South Bend in front of a sold out stadium.

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

Sean Taylor. He is the one player I look up to and I grew up watching him play. I wanted to be just like him. I’d love to hang with him for a day and pick his brain on the many questions I’ll have.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

My parents inspire me the most. Seeing all they have sacrificed for me and my sister growing up. Even when we didn’t have much they still taught me humility and how to work for what I want. They inspire me because they both had every reason to give up but they didn’t. They taught me no matter what life throws at you, that you can only control your attitude and response to it. I live by that.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

4-2-5, I love that defensive scheme because you can attack an offense and still be in a good coverage scheme as well. With an extra DB on the field you can cover the extra eligible and still put pressure on the QB with the front 7. It makes a defense more versatile versus the run and the pass.

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

I bring a very hyped and optimistic energy to the field. I’m a good leader and I pick my teammates up when they’re down. I’m the energy guy with all the energy. Making sure the team energy is on point.

What should we know about Isaiah Norman the person?

I am a very hard worker who loves people. I am humble and goal oriented person who loves sports and competition. I was blessed to be raised in a 2 parent household. I have a good head on my shoulders and I give 110% in whatever it is I’m involved in. I love football and working out. I also love eating and playing video games. I really enjoy music, it speaks to my soul.

What stands out the most about your film?

My versatility. Playing corner and safety at a high level. I’m a sure tackler that tackles well in space. My speed will show up too and my cover skills.

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

I’ve always had an optimistic mindset. Life could always be worse so why let the circumstances bring you down. Challenges make you stronger as a person I never back down from a challenge whether on or off the field I attack challenges with the same mindset.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A player that respects his coaches and teammates. A player who dedicates himself to the greater good of the team. A relentless work ethic with a positive attitude every single day. They will get the same Isaiah from day one to my last day playing football. I’m a smart player with good instincts and athletic ability. I am very coachable and I learn fast. The ability to play the next play and not to dwell on the past play. A great leader and motivator.

What are your favorite things about playing football for Marshall?

Bring apart of a historic team such as this is an honor in itself. The history this school holds is amazing and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Most of my collegiate career I was in the FCS so to be able to move up and play on the FBS level is a blessing. I love the team here and how we work. How we prepare is pro-like and it helps me prepare for the next level.

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

The most underrated player I’ve played with is named DeAngelo Wilson. He was the best receiver in FCS 2019 year. He was very good and he transferred to WKU. However he did not play much and I feel that he should’ve been playing.

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