2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Nick Ross, DB, Appalachian State University

• Name: Nick Ross
• Position: DB
• College: Appalachian State University
• Height: 5’11”
• Weight: 186 lbs.
• X (Twitter): @1nivk
• Instagram: @1.nick

What made you decide wanted to be a football player?

I’ve been a football player since 4 years old. What made me stick with it was my continuous love for the game and wanting to be the best me. I made it to where I used the game to clear my mind and get away from all the outside noise in my life. 

What are your favorite moments from your football life? 

Some of my favorite on the field moments would be my Pick 6 against South Carolina my freshman year at App state, winning sunbelt player of the week during college game day vs Troy, leading the team in tackles with a victory of #6 Texas A&M, and also winning my first championship in 2009 for my Pop Warner team Elyria Bulldogs we finished the season undefeated. 

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

I’m looking forward to waking up every day and winning that day. I want to get 1% better everyday and not look forward into the future. Everything else will handle itself by doing so.

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

It would be Tyrann Mathieu the reason why is because I grew up watching his highlights and looking up to him. He is doing some positive things in the community and I know I can learn some wisdom about football and life from a Saints team captain. 

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

My mother inspires me the most because of her hustle. I have seen her make the best out of the worst situations and always rise to the top. 

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

My favorite defensive scheme would be a 6 man pressure with a drop 5 patient “Hot zone Coverage” with eyes on the QB. This forces him to make a quick or decisive throw that will be contested from a patient hot zone coverage technique. 

What should we know about Nick Ross the person? 

That I am a true hard worker and grinder. I wake up with a chip on my shoulder everyday. 

What stands out about your film the most?

The thing that stands out the most on my film is my high motor, I refuse to get out hustled to the ball. I am also able to play many different positions at DB and special teams. 

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

I give everything a 24 hour rule both in football and life. Once it happens there is nothing you can do in life to fix the event anymore. Good or bad once the next day hits I need to move on from it. 

What would a team get in a player like you?

Someone who is going to show up to work everyday and give it his all.

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

How it brings everyone together and cause happiness to a lot of people from different backgrounds for the love of one thing. 

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

The most underrated player I have ever played with would be Jaiden Gory. He was the linebacker on my high school defense that was never heavily recruited because of his size.