2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Cooper McDonald, LB, TCU

• Name: Cooper McDonald
• Position: LB
• College: TCU
• Height: 6’ 2 1/4”
• Weight: 235 lbs
• X (Twitter): @coopmcdonald55
• Instagram: @c.mac.41

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

Football has been a huge part in my life. It runs all throughout my family. My dad played football at Arkansas State. My oldest brother Colton played at North Texas and my other brother Caden played at San Diego state. I started playing in the 1st grade went straight into tackle football and I loved it and the love for the game has been with me ever since.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Some of my favorite moments have to be my first ever touchdown in the 1st grade, playing collegiate football, and just recently showcasing my skills at Pro day which I thought was a blast and definitely a highlight making it to this point.

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

Most importantly I want to glorify my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ while playing ball. I am looking to making a NFL roster and making a NFL team very happy.

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

I would hangout with TJ Watt. I would love to pick his brain and learn about the things he does that help him be as successful as he is.

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

My grandad, Frontz Myatt, he was a World War 2 veteran and when he had come back from the war he played football and also did track. He played at McMurry in Abilene,Texas. He always wanted to know about all of our sports and what we had been doing. From everything I remember about him he was very involved with all of us kids. He has gone through much worse things than anything I have ever gone through which is a huge inspiration to me seeing all the success he had after the war.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

I wouldn’t say I have a favorite scheme. I love to attack, I like to make the offense react to us. That was something my defensive coordinator always use to say to us is make the offense react to you. Love being able to show my versatility coming off the edge and playing off the ball and going into coverage as well.

What should we know about Cooper McDonald the person?

As a person you are going to get 100% at all times no matter the circumstance. I love the game of football. I am relentless when it comes to the game of football. I value hard work and discipline they are some of the values I was grown up on.

What stands out about your film the most?

What stands out about my film is first and foremost my effort. No one runs to the ball like I do. My mindset is that I can make every play and I will do whatever it takes. The way I strike and get rid of blockers to make plays and to be disruptive and not staying connected to anyone. My instincts of the game but that comes from the way I prepare constantly watching film and picking up on things that the opponent does.

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

In life there are going to be hard times, but I take comfort in knowing that Jesus Christ is always there to guide me. I live with the belief that God has a plan for me, and through faith, I can get through any challenge. It’s about trusting in Him, even when the road feels uncertain, and believing that He’s leading me toward growth. I remind myself that perseverance is key, and that Jesus taught us the importance of enduring trials with strength and humility. Whether on the field or in life, it’s not about being perfect it’s about how you rise up, stay humble, and keep moving forward with faith in Christ.

What would a team get in a player like you?

I’m someone who leads by example whether it’s through hard work on the field, staying disciplined in the weight room, or holding myself accountable. I’m not just there to play I’m there to make the team better whether that be on all 4 special teams or a role on defense. I take pride in being reliable, whether that’s getting the big tackle, making the key play or simply being a guy my teammates can count on when things get tough.

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

What I love most about it is the violence that it brings. Also football shows camaraderie and the sense of brotherhood. It’s not just about the game itself it’s about the people you’re with and the relationships you build. I love the competition and how it pushes me to be better every day. Football is a game of strategy, physicality, and mental toughness. Every time you step onto the field, you have to bring your best. It teaches you resilience, discipline, and how to handle adversity with lessons that apply to life in general.

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

The most underrated player I have played with would have to be JP Richardson WR from TCU. He showed up everyday and worked his butt off. He was very consistent in what he did and still does. A NFL team is going to be very happy to get him!