2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Gray Davis, OL, Colorado State University

• Name: Gray Davis
• Position: OL
• College: Colorado State University
• Height: 6’4”
• Weight: 320 lbs
• Twitter: @graydavis73
• Instagram: @graydavis73

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

I’m from Texas, where football is a huge part of every young man’s life. Almost every kid plays when they’re young and decides whether they want to stick with it through middle school and high school. Ever since I first started playing tackle football in 4th grade I’ve been in love with the sport and what it brings to my life.

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

I want to have a successful career in the NFL where I help a team win and improve their offensive line unit overall. I also want to help leave the offensive line position in a better place than when I started as I have a lot of pride in being one.

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

Zack Martin. He is the best guard in the NFL and is just everything I aspire to be in an offensive lineman. Picking his brain on technique and the ways he studies and prepares would be invaluable to me.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My high school team won the state championship in 2014 which was an awesome moment. In addition to that, meeting all the friends I’ve made on my football journey and helping younger players transition into becoming a committed college football player.

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

My dad, he’s experienced a lot of adversity in life and has always pushed through while still being a great father. He has supported me on my football journey since day 1, no matter what he had going on, and has come to almost all of my games.

What is your favorite offensive scheme and why?

Although I ran a no huddle air raid offense in college, I would say my favorite offensive scheme would be a pro style offense. I love the physicality and nastiness you get to employ against defenders on downhill runs while still being put in positions to protect your QB in passing situations and taking pride in that.

What should we know about Gray Davis the person?

I’m very passionate and strive to be the best I can be, in everything I do. I love the game of football and work tirelessly to become a better player every day. I’m also a tough person who shows up every day ready to work, no matter the circumstances.

What stands out about your film the most?

I’m very quick off the ball to the point of attack, can get out in space and run, am tough, play with strong hands, and look to finish my blocks with tenacity. I also take precise and efficient footwork and angles, that combined with my ability to mentally process what the defense is doing, allows me to respond and pick up stunts and blitzes. Finally, you can really tell I love playing the game, and offensive line specifically.

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

I see challenges and adversity as ways to improve yourself as a man and a football player. If you choose to shut down and run away from challenges or refuse to face them, then you will never grow as a person or learn anything. However, if you choose to meet challenges and adversity head on, you can analyze the situation and see what you need to change or do better, which will allow you to grow as a man or a football player.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get a smart and tough offensive lineman, who has a high football IQ and is a quick learner. I have played all 5 positions on the line in college so a team would also be getting a very flexible and versatile lineman who can fill in wherever needed. Lastly, a team would be getting a player who can learn and adapt to any offensive system and will show up every day 100% locked in ready to improve himself.

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

It’s the only situation, outside of combat sports, where you can physically impose your will on another man without being punished for it, especially in the trenches. The game is a true test of grit and toughness that teaches many valuable life lessons, and there’s hardly anything that feels better than winning a game with your brothers.

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

Tory Horton. He’s a wide receiver at Colorado State and I played with him for 3 years. He has great size, speed, and ball skills but I haven’t seen any hype around him as a NFL prospect. I definitely think he will be playing on Sundays though.