2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: De’Shayvion McRath, DE, Olivet Nazarene University

• Name: De’Shayvion McRath
• Position: Edge
• College: Olivet Nazarene University
• Height: 6′ 0″
• Weight: 240 lbs
• Instagram: @_.mcrath5

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

I honestly knew very early on in my career. When I was about 7, I had my first really good season playing quarterback in little league and from there on out I knew it’s something I really wanted to do. I was and still am obsessed with the physicality and team comradery that comes with the game of football.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

There’s honestly so many. But just two that come to the top of my head are beating Hanover for the Victory Bell my sophomore year at Franklin College and a more recent one was my last game with ONU. We beat #18 ranked University of St. Francis (IND) and I had 2 sacks as well.

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

I’m looking to make my dreams of playing in the NFL come true. It’s been my dream since I was about 7 years old and I’m willing to take as many steps as possible necessary to make it a reality. I want to create a legacy for myself playing the game I love so that I can bless the people that have helped me along the way and my community back home as well.

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

Michael Vick for sure. He’s always been my all-time favorite NFL player, and I just admire his story. The way he bounced back and dominated after his incarceration was super inspiring to me and is the reason I am an Eagles fan till this day.

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

My momma! That’s where I get my go-getter mindset from. She is easily the hardest working human being I know and is the reason I go so hard to achieve my dreams. I love that woman.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

Probably 3-4. I say that because I like being a stand-up rusher who can drop into coverage from time to time as well. Like a Broncos Von Miller/Andrew Van Ginkel type of guy. I am very confident in my ability to learn and play in any scheme though. 

What should we know about De’Shayvion McRath the person?

That I am a fun, loving person who loves to be around family & sports. I am a true football junkie who loves to see and learn new things about the game, even in my down time.

What stands out about your film the most?

My quick twitch and the tenacity I play with. I think it also shows my ability to make plays anywhere on the field with TFLs coming from me playing or stunting inside to just being on the edge as well.

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

Honestly just trusting in God and believing that everything happens for a reason. I always try to take a positive from a negative situation because there’s always a lesson that can be learned. “Control the controllables” is a saying I really like to go by.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get a leader. Someone who truly loves the game and is always looking for ways to be better. Someone who takes pride in being a very balanced defender who can play the run just as efficiently as I rush the passer.

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

I love the physicality of it. Something about being able to beat the man across from you against his will is just satisfying to me. Also, it’s the greatest team sport there is. The amount of great teammates and coaches I’ve met while playing football is unbelievable. 

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

Arli Pine. He’s someone I came into my ONU training camp not knowing but quickly learned about. Has great hands and uses his quick feet to his advantage as an undersized offensive lineman. I loved competing against him in practice because it felt like actual game reps. He’s a dawg for sure!