2020 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Isaiah Rodgers, CB, University of Massachusetts
Student-Athlete Profile:
- Isaiah Rodgers
- University of Massachusetts
- CB
- 5’10”
- 170lbs.
- Hometown: Tampa, FL
- Twitter: @rodgers_isaiah
2018 Statistics:
- GP: 10
- Total Tackles: 56
- TFL: 3.0
- PBU: 4
- INTs: 2
As an athlete, what is your motivation?
As an athlete, my family is my main motivation. Not letting them down and pursing the promising I gave them, keeps me going during the day.
What defines success for you?
When I reached every goal God has planned for me in life as well as doing what I love, having fun, and making the people around me better, and happier; in all aspects of life.
What would your teammates say about the type of teammate you are?
My teammate would say that I am a leader, hardworking, outgoing, and goofy person to be around. I bring smiles and positive vibes inside and outside of the locker room.
What are some of your personal “rules” that you never break?
Never lose faith in God, never give up, and never let my head down unless I’m praying.
Who is the toughest player you’ve competed against during your collegiate career?
2018 week 12 against Georgia. Dealing with Mecole Hardman, Terry Godwin, and Riley Ridley in one game was by far the most fun game of the season and best competition I’ve faced.
Who is the best player in the NFL?
Tom Brady offense or Aaron Donald defense.
What is your team of choice on Madden, why?
Chiefs all day. Tyreek Hill and Patrick Mahomes duo are just crazy. Adding Mecole Hardman to the packages in Madden 20, good luck playing against me
Failure is inevitable in life. How do you handle situations that don’t go in your favor?
I tend to use my failed moments as motivation to do better the next time. Everyone will someday fail at something. The way you respond when things get tough separates the goods from the greats and the greats from the legendary.
Is there a current/former NFL player that you model your game after?
Current Redskins cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. Not only are we first cousins and we both train together when we are home, but I also get to see his grind first hands outside of the mandatory work. His work ethic and play go unnoticed by the league. By the numbers speak for him. An 11-year veteran, 2x pro bowler, 30 INTs with 146 passes defended, I’m looking to beat him in every aspect I can.
Knowing what you do now, what would you go back and tell yourself as a High-School Freshman?
Take that time to know and find yourself. Always be you and never let anyone try and change you. Take advantage of the days you have, make all of them count. Time will fly and you can’t stop time or days to try and play catch up. Last but not least, invest in stock. Just trust me on that.
What is your go-to restaurant near campus?
Texas Roadhouse guy if I feel the time to sit down. If I’m in a rush then hands down Chipotle or Hot Table.
If your life was a book, what would its title be?
Because my jersey number is nine I was thinking “The Whole 9 Yards,” but “Only1Cool,” would most likely be the title.
What song or artist do you like but rarely admit to liking?
Ella Mai or Queen Naija. I’m forced to listen to them at times, so you’d be surprised how many songs I know.
If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, living or deceased, who would it be and why?
Craig Rodgers, my Father. The greatest man I ever met and ever will meet and would like to relive those moments with him once again.
Forty-years from now, what do you want to be remembered for?
I would like to be remembered as a man who not only focused on his dreams but a man who helped many people around him be the best human beings they could be.
In 15 words or less, why should an NFL team invest in you?
I’m hardworking, dedicated, willing to buy in and won’t leave them with any regrets.
