2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Mateo Lucero, OL, Tennessee Tech

• Name: Mateo Lucero 
• Position: Offensive Lineman (Guard)
• College: Tennessee Tech 
• Height: 6’4
• Weight: 325
• Twitter: Mateo_Lucero71
• Instagram: Mateo7.1

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2027 NFL Draft?

My hand speed, hand fighting ability, Football IQ very adaptable, and my strength and speed relative to my size.

Tell me about a time you faced adversity and how you responded?

The time when I was in high school and lost my scholarship and didn’t have anything left, but I kept a good mindset and stuck to the process and got my opportunity at Wagner College and started as a freshman. 

What are your hobbies outside of football?

I enjoy Fishing and Golf.

What role do you see yourself playing at the next level?

I see myself being a consistent interior lineman that will do everything in my power to help myself and teammates be successful.

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

I would like to donate to organizations supporting children with autism. As someone with multiple autistic family members, I have seen firsthand the significant challenges that parents and families face on a daily basis. Supporting this cause would be deeply meaningful to me and would help provide vital assistance to other families navigating similar difficulties.

How do you handle coaching, especially criticism or being corrected repeatedly?

I handle coaching very well, I like it when I get coached hard because I know that coach cares about my development and it motivates me to be better because I know there is always room to improve.

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

I would have dinner with Lionel Messi, Tom Brady, and Dana White. I choose them because they have all shown and proven that setbacks in their lives don’t define their future and to keep working on your goals because they have failed many times to get to where they are today.

If you were benched tomorrow, what would be the most likely reason?

The reason would be because of something that I didn’t prepare for.

Walk me through your typical pre-game routine?

Upon arriving at the field, I begin my pre-game routine by walking the perimeter while listening to music that helps me mentally lock in and prepare for the opponent. I then perform a complete rollout and dynamic stretching sequence, take time for prayer, and prioritize hydration by consuming appropriate fluids.

What is your favorite snack food?

My Favorite snack is any type of beef jerky or meat sticks.

What scheme do you feel you fit the best in?

I fit best in a run-heavy scheme with tempo elements that can sustain drives and win in tougher December playoff-style games.

What is your degree in?

Business Admin with a concentration in Finance

What would be the first thing you buy with your first NFL check?

I would not buy anything expensive, I would put it into investments/Savings accounts.

Describe a time in a game where you feel you made a mistake, and explain how you bounced back?

I remember when I played my first college game and was making simple mistakes that I know that I would never make. At halftime I had to just calm myself down and play freely and confident. I ended up playing much better in the second half. 

Name three songs, we can expect on your playlist?

Sweet emotion by Aerosmith, Whole lotta Love: Led Zeppelin, Borderline: Tame Impala.