Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Mike Early, DB , University of Arkansas Monticello

Every year, NFL Draft Diamonds brings our readers the best in depth interviews on the internet. We specialize in giving players an opportunity to showcase their talents on our website. We conducted interviews last year with over 300 plus players. We want you to enjoy our interviews, because when these young men are in the league, we will not be surprised, and neither should you. 

What is your name?

Mike Early

Where do you play college football?

University of Arkansas Monticello

How many teams were recruiting you out of high school?

15 schools out of high school

How did you choose your school?.

Speaking with my family

Where are you from?

New Orleans, Louisiana

Who is your role model, and why?

My brother, he is a true definition of a man, takes care of business and loves his family.

Have any scouts met with you yet, and if so what are they saying?

Yes, the Buffalo Bills scout asked me the type of scheme I like playing in, and we watched game film.

Did you play any other sports growing up?

Yes, I played Basketball, Baseball, and of course Football

Did you play any other positions in football?

I always played cornerback and other times at free safety

At your position, what separates you from others?

My athletic ability and judgement of the football in the air.

When you are breaking down film, what do you look for?

I always focus on the receiver I will be facing trying to get different tendencies. Also personnel, and formations.

Who was the toughest player you ever faced?

Darren Davis from Henderson State

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

Brent Grimes, because of his athletic ability

What was the biggest obstacle in your life you had to overcome, and how did you overcome it?

I had to overcome having a son while I was 18. I overcame that by persevering and pushing forward, with the help of my family, coaches, and friends.  the situation worked out great.

Do you have any pre-game rituals?

Tape Wrists before pregame, and take the tape off the wrist before the kickoff.

What is your biggest strength?

Speed, Judgement of the football, and ball awareness

What is your biggest weakness?

Tackling

If I were a GM and gave you a second to sell yourself, what would you say?

I am a great team player, I love working with people, and soaking up a lot of information from everyone.  I’m family oriented, and a very loyal person.

Who was your favorite player and NFL team growing up?

New England Patriots are my favorite team and my favorite player was Deion Sanders. 

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would you choose?

I would say my grandfather John because I never had the chance to meet him, and my family always says how much I remind them of him. Second, the great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., because of the icon he was. I think that would be pretty awesome to sit and listen to him speak, he has great knowledge. Lastly, Will Smith, because I am a huge fan of the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.