2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Dennis Barnes, DB, University of Texas-El Paso

• Name: Dennis Barnes
• Position: DB
• College: University of Texas-El Paso
• Height: 5’11”
• Weight: 175 lbs
• Twitter: @tdbxiii
• Instagram: @tdbxiii

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

I’ve always been around football, started pop warner at 6 yrs old and I grew up watching the Vikings because that’s the team I was on. So I’ve always had a ball in my hand.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

I am looking to better my skills and become one of the greatest football players to do it. I’ve always been overlooked, so all of this is a matter of making that statement proving myself right that I am more than capable at playing at the highest level.

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

Deion Sanders, I just think he’s a great dude overall. The way he carries himself and leads in every direction he goes that’s special. I try to be that person. Then with that he still is one of the greatest competitors in sport history. He’d be a great guy to network with.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Once in high school, I called it out to my teammates that I was returning the kick and I did. Getting offers out of juco and being apart of the football brotherhood. I’ve always Ioved building relationships with my teammates.

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

My mother. She’s just my everything, she’s always been there for me and supported me as she should and how hard she works just to make sure me and my sisters are successful and happy with our life. For that I can never repay her, so I love her endlessly.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

Cov 4/Palms- as a nickel it allows me to play with range and speed. I am a primary force on run and in pass I’m in a spot drop zone that allows me to make plays on the ball with good technique and IQ.

What should we know about Dennis Barnes the person?

I’m a real driven person, I work extremely hard to make my family proud. I’m always looking for ways to expand my knowledge and become a better individual.

What stands out about your film the most?

Speed, physicality, effort to the ball.

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

I’ve always had a clear mind and good head on my shoulders by simply being raised well. I’ve always been the person to do what I said I was going to and knowing I’m going to do the right thing. I’ve been through a lot in my life and experienced a lot that others haven’t, but that’s what makes me great because I’m still here striving to be a better individual daily and inspiring others to do the same as well.

What would a team get in a player like you?

They are getting a DAWG. Simple. A great team player, a leader, and someone who deeply wants to be successful and win.

What do you love the most about the game of football?

I love the game because it gives me an opportunity to express my passion for sports or being an athlete. I’m allowed to be myself and put on a show for others. And most importantly it’s taught me a lot about being a man and working for things I want in life.

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

I’d say Tyrice Knight, LB, I played with him at UTEP. He still has another year or so left. But the dude can play, he flies around the field and just naturally a smart, gifted athlete.