2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Charles Grant, OT, William & Mary

• Name: Charles Grant
• Position: Offensive Tackle
• College: William and Mary
• Height: 6’4
• Weight: 300
• Twitter: @CharlesGrant51
• Instagram: @kharlesgrant_

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2025 NFL Draft?

I believe my speed, wingspan, and agility developed from wrestling, along with a great work ethic are some of the things that place me as a top prospect. I have a mindset to improve at my position every day and recognize I have been blessed with natural abilities that can’t be taught. Even though I started playing football in my Junior year of High School I believe I can use this mindset to flourish at any level.

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

NFL teams should know that I always put forth my best effort. I practice and play at the highest level; and study to improve at that same level. I am a very coachable player, able to take direction and constructive criticism to improve my play. Anything I do is with the intention of being able to say that I gave it my all and, in the end, have no regrets.

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

I recently donated my stem cells after participating in the “Be the Match” drive under Coach London at William and Mary. I really believe this is a worthy cause and want to use my platform to bring awareness and increase participation in the African-American community. However, I do have a strong interest in supporting programs for at-risk youth. I want to work with young kids to encourage and show that, no matter their situation, they can work to have a good future.  

Who was your role model?

My role-models will always be my parents. They have always been my greatest support in anything I chose to do. They have been great examples of teaching values about how to treat others, how to work well with others, and how to respect others even if you disagree with them. Growing up, every year, my brother and I had to choose one sport to play for that season. As I got older my dad explained it was to help us learn important life lessons like teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

Dallas Cowboys. My dad has been a loyal Cowboys fan and for as long as I can remember he has been telling me I am a Cowboys fan. We definitely were a Dallas Cowboys household. I guess you can say it was initially ingrained in me. However, I do have some old teammates on other NFL teams and support the #TribeInThePros.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

I think the most underrated player at my school is Clayton Dobler. He is an OLB that has a crazy drive to get after it during the play. He has some talented guys in front of him but just from working with him so much, I know when he gets his chance, he will make the most of it.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Someone who smacks or chews very loudly. If it gets too much for me, I end up joining in at that point.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

I have to say a toss-up between Mr. Pollock, my Middle School History teacher, and Mr. Marriner, my High School Physics teacher. Not only were they my teachers; they were also my wrestling coaches. As my teacher, the personal connection made it more fun to attend class and learn the subjects.

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

During my sophomore year in high school, I was a member of the wrestling team. I was in the 220lb weight class and most of my opponents were seniors or juniors. I was losing each match and when I had to face my dad after the match, he’d ask this same question, “Did you do your best”? I’d always answer “Yes, I did my best” and we’d drive home talking about the matches. After this one particular match, I lost again. This time instead of my dad asking me if I’d done my best, he just sat there. Finally, he looked at me and asked if I ever got tired of losing. We talked some more and had a good heart to heart. After that night I didn’t lose another match until the Regional tournament. I believe I gained a different level of competitiveness. The hardest moment was deciding within myself that I had to become more than what I was, if I wanted to win in life. 

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

I would have a Panda Express in my house. Honey Walnut Shrimp is my favorite. 

What is your favorite snack food?

My favorite snack food is popcorn/kettle corn. After home games, Uncle Dave’s Kettle-Korn is always the go to.

What is your degree in?

My degree is in Psychology. I have an interest in learning about the human mind and behavior.  I plan on continuing my education further in the future.

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

1. Obama- To discuss what it was that gave him the belief that he could become the president of the United States, as a Black man.
2. Lebron James – He is one of the greatest athletes ever. I would ask about his habits that have kept him in the game for so long. 
3. Adam Sandler – I am a fan and pretty much love all his movies. I would have to ask for impersonations of all his characters.

What is your biggest weakness?

One area I’m working to improve is balancing football with other commitments. With football being my main priority, sometimes it can be a challenge to shift my focus to other things. I started using Mondays as my main day to contact and follow-up with family and friends. I feel this is helping me to keep that balance.