2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Malik Baker, DB, SE Missouri State University

• Name: Malik Baker
• Position: DB
• College: SE Missouri State University
• Height: 6′ 2″
• Weight: 205 lbs
• X: @malikbaker211
• Instagram: @malik.bakerrr

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

I decided to play football because when I watched my cousin play when I was younger it inspired me to go out there and want to play it looked fun and exciting, so I wanted to experience it.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My favorite moments from football are winning a conference championship in 2023 and being named first team all-conference in 2025.

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

My parents inspire me the most no matter what they are going through they make sure that they are there for me and they make sure they support me in any situation they always put me first and I can do nothing but appreciate that. My parents have taught me so many lessons that made me a better man I just hope one day I can be as great of a parent as they are.

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

I love the brotherhood you can create through football. You play with these people for months sometimes years and you learn so much about them and you gain trust and love for people you don’t even know for that long and it’s a gift not everyone gets the chance to experience that so it’s a blessing.

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

I would hang out with Denzel Ward because we play the same position and both are from the same city so it would be cool to talk to him and get to learn some things from him and see what’s his mindset when it comes to certain things.

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

First things first is winning a conference championship here at SEMO and then making a deep run in the playoffs to win a national championship, but after that I plan to get to the NFL and make the most of my opportunities make sure I have a good pro day and just keep working until that opportunity comes.

What should we know about Malik Baker the person?

Malik Baker as a person, is a caring person, who is loyal to his friends and family because without them I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in today. I’m always looking for ways to grow I make sure to ask questions all the time to help improve myself as a better man for when football is over. Lastly, I’m a person who is building a future because football is definitely my passion but if every player’s career will come to an end so I have another career I’m ready to pursue that will keep me motivated and willing to work.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

The best defensive scheme is a 4-2-5 because most teams are pass heavy offenses so it’s good to have 5 defensive backs’ out there and you still have enough to stop the run.

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

I handle challenges by keeping a positive mindset and understanding I’m in a blessed situation not everyone gets a chance to play college football so whatever the issue is I have to just use it as motivation to help me improve.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get a hard worker, a leader, a player who is coachable, and a player who is ready to adapt and play in any position a coach needs me to play in.

What stands out about your film the most?

When you turn on my film you will see a corner who is great in press and someone who is good at attacking the ball in the air. You will see me win one on one a lot and lastly you will see a corner who is ready to tackle and never looking to duck any contact.

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

The most underrated player I’ve played with is Jacob Tueimeh because he isn’t the fastest guy or the smartest guy on the field but he is a hard worker, a great leader, and a competitive player who goes out there and give his all to make sure his team can get a win. He knows how to make plays and he never lets you down he shows up every time he steps on the field.