2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Michael Rigerman, TE, University of Findlay

• Name: Michael Rigerman
• Position: Tight End 
• College: University of Findlay
• Height: 6’ 3”
• Weight: 250
• Twitter: mrigerman35
• Instagram: michaelrigerman21

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2024 NFL Draft?

I set myself apart from other tight ends by being very versatile in the position. There are times when I play on the ball, off the ball, in the slot, outside, and in the backfield. I enjoy blocking as much as I do having the ball in my hands.

At what age were you first interested in the sport of football?

Around the age of 5 or 6, I really started to see football all around me with my family being Bills fans and other kids my age starting to play youth football, it intrigued me to play as well.

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

I may not be loud and flashy but I am always going to come ready to work. 

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?

Either a cancer foundation or multiple sclerosis research to help find a cure. 

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Not every day is going to be perfect but those days you are not perfect are as important as the perfect days.

Who was your childhood hero?

Easily my mom, who has been a role model to me and someone who was growing up still while I was growing up.

Who is the most underrated teammate in your locker room at your school?

One of our rushes Izzy Ogunmoyero.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

When someone complains too much about something and refuses to change it. 

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

Mrs. Herrick, my pre-calculus and calculus teacher in High School. 

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?

During the pandemic, we had been shut down and during that time I had to opt out of the fall season, and during the time of me being away from the sport for so long, I didn’t think I would go back and play and just start working.

Tell me something about your school and why it is so special to you?

My school may not be the most resourced or biggest but it does give you a sense of family and home no matter where you are from. 

If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house what would it be?

It would have to be Chick-fil-A 

What is your favorite snack food?

Something I never get sick of is honey-roasted peanuts

What is your degree in?

The Bachelor’s of science in exercise science and strength and conditioning. 

If you could sell yourself in one sentence what would you say?

Everyone has underestimated me my entire life, why would you also want to be a part of that category instead of being someone who gave me a chance to prove myself. 

If you could compare your play to one player in the NFL who would it be?

I would say someone I try to model my game after is George Kittle. 

What is your favorite game to play at the carnival/theme park?

Either the dart to balloon or the goldfish game because my sister loves it.

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why?

My grandmother, passed away before any of this process had started and I remember telling her when I was a kid, that I would play in the NFL someday. I would love to sit down with her one last time to tell her about the journey. George Kittle because he is my favorite tight end in the league and I would love to learn from him and hear how he plays, thinks, and understands the game of football. Plus, he has a great personality that I think would bring a great mood to dinner. Lastly, my mother to show her thanks and my gratitude for raising me to be me and who I am today, without her, there wouldn’t be me and this crazy dream that became a goal.