2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Thomas Harper, DB, University of Notre Dame

• Name: Thomas Harper
• Position: DB
• College: University of Notre Dame
• Height: 5’11”
• Weight: 193 lbs
• X (Twitter): @iamthomasharper
• Instagram: @iamtharp_

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

Watching my brother and friends play and have fun is definitely one of the things that drew me to football. As well as watching the old-school style of play and the physicality of the game is what led me to wanting to play football.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Some of my favorite moments playing football is being able to play alongside my brother at Oklahoma State as well as winning bedlam in 2021.

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

At the next level, I want to play on the biggest stage which is the Super Bowl and hopefully one day be a world champion. I also don’t think my football career will be complete without an all pro selection. At least one!

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

If I could hang out with any football player for a day, I would definitely choose Ed Reed. I feel like his IQ was second to none and being able to pick his brain would be really cool and helpful.

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

I think my mom inspires me the most. The way and the things she sacrifices for family is very inspirational to me and a quality I hope to inherit.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

I think it depends on the situation, but I would say overall I’m very comfortable in cover 1. Whether it be at safety, playing free, reading the quarterback, and being able to make plays. Or at nickel covering the slot. I love the trust that a coach has to have in his players to be able to run cover one and it’s all about winning your one on one’s!

What should we know about Thomas Harper the person?

Thomas Harper, as a person is very hard-working and a problem solver. If I’m asked to do something and I don’t know how or what to do I will try until I figure it out!

What stands out about your film the most?

I think my instincts, versatility and high motor stand out about my film, the most. In my college career, I’ve played corner, safety, and nickel at a high-level.

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

I handle challenges in life and on the football field by staying focused and maintaining a positive mindset. In life I approach challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. On the field I thrive under pressure and use challenges as motivation to raise my game to another level.

What would a team get in a player like you?

The team that drafts me will get a versatile and adaptable defensive back, who brings a high motor to the team. My speed and athletic ability allow me to cover receivers at a high-level as well as step up in run support whenever needed. I also love to compete on special teams and impact the game however I can!

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

I love the physicality and brotherhood of the game, the most.

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

I think the most underrated player I’ve ever played with is Spencer Sanders, when he is locked in, his ability to affect the game with his arms and legs is second to none.