2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: CJ McCray, Edge, Cincinnati/Virginia Tech

• Name: CJ McCray
• Position: Edge
• College: Cincinnati/ Virginia Tech
• Height: 6’4”
• Weight: 247 lbs
• X: @cjmccray4
• Instagram: @cj.mccray

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

Sports has always been big in my family, football was just the route I chose. I have a long list of family members who made it or ran track collegiately or played baseball professionally. 

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

I have plenty of great memories but the one that sticks out to me is my TFL on 3rd and one stop against GT in 2022. It was during a crucial moment in the game and Lane Stadium was rocking after that play. 

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

To play at the next level and make the most out of any and everything and any opportunity that presents itself. 

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

I would say Ed Reed. He had a rough upbringing and I feel we would relate in that aspect. He could provide some advice or insight that I could use as I continue this journey. 

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

My dad for sure. He sacrifices so much for our family and he loves us all deeply. He would do anything for any one of us. 

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

4-2-5, why? Simple. This defense is one that I played in at VT. It is a defensive scheme that can present many different looks but still be in the same coverage. With a defensive line that can pass rush this defense is lethal. It sets up opportunities for the LB’s and back end guys to make plays. 

What should we know about CJ McCray the person?

I am a high energy and high effort guy. I will be the same guy everyday and add value to not only on the field but in the locker room. I challenge guys and push guys. I’m not the rowdy type but I lead by example and confront issues when they need to be. 

What stands out about your film the most?

I would say my ability to win my one on one match ups. I wasn’t always a defensive end I was a linebacker coming into college so transitioning was difficult at first. After a while I began to find my game and my play style and owned my role as a third down guy at VT. 

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

I am a faith driven man so when I have problems I pray and seek counsel from my mentors. Sometimes it can look different with me maybe getting field work or lifting. 

What would a team get in a player like you?

As I said earlier, a high energy and high effort guy who only wants to get better. Who is the same guy everyday and wants to push the limits of himself and others.

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

I love the environment. Being on the field and making a huge play and seeing the smiles on your brother’s faces and hearing the crowd roar, there’s nothing like it. 

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

I would say Jaden Keller. He was one of the most freakish athletes I’ve ever seen. Physical, fast and long. Prototypical linebacker also. Along with him I would say Keli Lawson. Those two guys are in this year’s draft also so it’s going to be interesting how everything pans out for all of us.