2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Monchovia Gaffney, LB, Campbell University

• Name: Monchovia Gaffney
• Position: Inside Linebacker 
• College: Campbell University 
• Height: 6’1
• Weight: 230
• Twitter: M_gaffney910
• Instagram: Moca_1k 

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2024 NFL Draft? 

What makes me a top prospect at my position in the 2024 draft is me being versatility to be able to play in space inside and outside of the box and have the ability to run from sideline to sideline. Also, having the ability to cover running backs and tight ends. 

At what age were you first interested in the sport of football?

My interest in football began at the age of 8. Playing in the NFL and leaving an impact has always been a top priority for me. Every time I step on the field I leave it all there because I know that it’s bigger than me. I understand that this dream will soon be a reality, and nothing can stop me but me. My older brother Marquese had introduced me to football and ever since I have been playing for me and my family. 

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

One thing that the NFL team should know about me is that I’m a hard worker. I’m also coachable and would refer to myself as being a sponge. When I come across valuable information from seasoned professionals, I digest it with the hope of getting at least 1% better every day. 

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

If I could donate to any organization or cause it would be cancer. Specifically thyroid cancer, because my brother suffered from it. He almost lost the fight at only 9 years old. Thankfully, he had an amazing team of doctors along with a huge support team. Eventually, he was able to beat it. I would fund research and treatment for the less fortunate.

What is the best advice you have ever received? 

The best advice I ever received was to be true to myself and be a sponge and soak in as much information as possible. 

Who was your childhood hero? 

My childhood hero is my mother because she is the backbone of me and my brothers. 

Who is the most underrated teammate in your locker room at your school? 

Lamagea McDowell is the most underrated teammate in the locker room.

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

My biggest pet peeve is when someone doesn’t take care of their personal hygiene. 

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome? 

One of the hardest moments I had to overcome was recovering from shoulder surgery in November 2020. Dealing with an injury in itself was challenging, but bouncing back was even harder. It was a mental and physical battle. It took determination, courage, patience, and perseverance to achieve my return. I’m now back performing 100% and I’m proud to have overcome this obstacle. My trainers and support system played a huge role in my recovery. 

Tell me something about your school and why it is so special to you?

What’s special about Campbell is the atmosphere here and the interaction among the students playing a big role in the community. 

What is your favorite snack food? 

My favorite snack is Original Pringles. 

What is the best part of football? 

The best part of football is the moments leading up to the game. Feeling the energy from the crowd, the music, and my teammates is something I will never forget! It’s the best feeling ever. 

If you could sell yourself in one sentence what would you say? 

I’m not a product of the biggest University; however, my raw talent speaks for itself! 

If you could compare your play to one player in the NFL who would it be? 

I would compare myself to Jaylon Smith. He played for the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, and the Green-bay Packers. He is a leader on and off the field, and my game models his. Smith is very versatile with speed and strength. He has the ability to cover down running backs when he needs to. He is also great with identifying formations pre and post-snap play. 

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

The three people I would choose to have dinner with would be Ray Lewis, Lebron James, and Sean Taylor. I think highly of these three men. I would love to pick their brain. Learning how they attack life every day is of interest to me.