2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Michael Leslie, DB, Lindsey Wilson College
- Name: Michael Leslie
- Position: DB
- College: Lindsey Wilson College
- Height: 6’1″
- Weight: 205 lbs
- Twitter: @Michaelleslie03
- Instagram: @michael.leslie1
What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?
Growing up in a family full of athletes I felt like it was destined. I loved going to watch my older brother and cousins play.
What are your favorite moments from your football life?
Winning a National Championship would be first. Also all of the people football has brought me.
What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?
To prove that I can play at a high level. Even though I played at a NAIA school I can compete with anyone.
If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?
Ray Lewis. The passion he has for the game is something that can’t be faked.
Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?
I would say my cousin Jauan. I’ve seen everything this world has thrown at him and he still achieved his goal of playing in the NFL. We’ve been best friends since birth and to see him live out his dream makes me want to chase mine even harder.
What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?
3-4. I feel like it is so much you can do out of the 3-4 defense. We ran this and gave opposing teams so much trouble because there was so much that we could do.
What should we know about Michael Leslie the person?
He’s a great guy who cares for others. He’s passionate about the game of football. He’s a competitor and a winner.
What stands out about your film the most?
My versatility. You will see me playing multiple positions.
How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?
I try to respond the best I can when adversity hits. In life I like to talk to God about it then go face my challenges. In football when things happen I think adjustments could always help out.
What would a team get in a player like you?
A guy that loves the game and a competitor. A team would be getting a guy that comes from a winning culture so I know the work and dedication that has to be put in to be successful.
What do you love the most about the game of football?
The things it teaches us about life. Playing football has taught me so much over the years. Also the people that it connects you with.
Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?
I would go LJ Bowman. If you cut in the tape and look at the numbers you’ll see that he is a ball player! The NAIA doesn’t get that much attention and our team the past two years we’re so dominant, we hardly ever played full games.
Hula Bowl Contributor and Writer/Scout/Interviewer for Draft Diamonds since January 2020. You can find me on X at @jrberendzen and Instagram at justinberendzen