2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Calvin Bright, DL, Grand View University

• Name: Calvin Bright
• Position: DL
• College: Grand View University
• Height: 6’4″
• Weight: 255 lbs
• Twitter: @CalvinBright
• Instagram: @calvin.bright

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

When I started playing football at 7 years old I knew this sport was going to be my life. Playing both sides of the ball and special teams throughout high school I never wanted to be off the field.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

The relationships I have made with my coaches and teammates have been some of my favorite memories. Being able to go to the national championship in 2021 with some of those guys will always be one of the top moments of my football life.

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

I want to play the game I love as long as possible. I also hope to be able to use my abilities to help my family and people in need around the world.

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

I would hang out with Jared Allen. When I got moved from linebacker to defensive end in high school he was the player I studied and looked up to. His physicality and personality made him hard not to watch when he was on the field.

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

My parents inspire me every day. They have both supported me from day one and their work ethic has always been something I could look up too.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

I would have to say 4-3 so I can come off the edge. However, it doesn’t make a big difference to me which scheme I am in. I have played all over the defensive line and enjoy using different techniques in different positions for success on the field.

What should we know about Calvin Bright the person?

I am a huge family guy. I love spending time with friends and family especially teammates. I am a silent leader who tries to set an example by doing the right things on and off the field. While I’m more quiet and friendly off the field I still can flip the switch once I step on the field and bring the physicality needed to succeed.

What stands out about your film the most?

My speed stands out the most on my film. While I have the strength to hold my ground and split a double team I also surprise QBs rolling out of the pocket with my ability to chase them down.

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

Learning to forget about mistakes and to have a next play mentality is extremely important on the football field. I try and use this off the field as well. Just as I fix my mistakes on the sideline or in the film room I do the same in life.

What would a team get in a player like you?

As a player that has played both sides of the ball in college I have an understanding of what the guy across from me may do. This has been huge in my film study as well as on the field. I also am a team player. If my job is to take on a double team for a backer or be in a gap on the backside of a play that’s what I will do.

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

I love how football is a team sport where all 11 individual assignments are vital to every play. My favorite plays as a defensive lineman is when we all do our jobs and the ball carrier is bouncing around with no where to go. Sacking a QB or getting a turnover are the things that you dream about the night before a game but while on the field the team tackles always seem to cause more of a momentum swing.

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

I’ve played with many great players over my years in college. Kiaeem Mosley is definitely one of the best. His ability to take on a double team and his strength to move the line of scrimmage is one of the best I’ve seen.