Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Dewey McDonald, SS, Cal (PA)

Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Dewey McDonald, SS, Cal (PA)  

How many teams were recruiting you out of high school?

The two main school that recruited me out of high school were WVU and Marshall.

Where did you choose and why?

I chose Fairmont State University because things didn’t work out with WVU, so I went where I could get my schooling paid for due to the fact my parents couldn’t afford to put me through school.

What were your goals for your senior year?

My goals for my senior year were to complete my Masters in Business Administration , win a conference title, and increase my draft stock in order to make it to the next level.

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

Yes, I have had 6 private workouts with the Dolphins, Patriots, Cardinals, Packers, Colts, and Chargers. Also, had one official visit the Indianapolis Colts. I have been getting lots of positive feedback from the teams that I have spoken with throughout the process, but there are no guarantees in this business.

At your position, what separates you from the others?

The thing that separates me from other Strong and Free Safeties is my size, speed, play making ability. Other traits that I have including leadership, professionalism, ball skills, and tackling are things that some of the other safeties have in this draft also.

Tell us what you look for when breaking down film?

When I break down film against an opponent I look for tendencies as a unit at the beginning of the weak with formations, plays run on certain down and distances, and route combinations. In the ladder part of the week I focus on individual tendencies pertaining to releases by wide receivers, favorite move for running backs, and how the QB progresses through his offense.

Who was the toughest player you have ever faced?

The toughest player that I have played against was Thomas Mayo my sophomore year against Concord University

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

I would compare my game to Ed Reed, because of his playmaking ability once he intercepts a pass. Also, his leadership and wisdom out on the field at all stages of the game. Another trait of Ed Reed that I have is consistency which is key if you want to have a successful career in the NFL.

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

The biggest obstacle I had to overcome was breaking my arm going into my senior year, because everything had to be put on hold with a dream that you have wanted since you were a little kid. Then later through the season what hurt the most was not playing with the seniors that I came into college with my freshman year. My faith and my support system got me through this obstacle, because I know at the end of the day God a has a plan for me whatever that may be. Honestly, me breaking my arm has been a blessing in disguise and everything happens for reason.

What system fits your style of play the best?

I believe I can fit in any system or scheme, because  I am a versatile safety. Also, I absorb information quickly and can apply it out on the field without being to over and over again.

What is your biggest strength?

My biggest strength is consistency with play making ability.

What is your biggest weakness?

My biggest weakness is footwork which I handled and tremendously improved on during training with Ray Buchanan in Atlanta.  

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

I am a small school safety with a chip on my shoulder and is a low maintenance guy with high production. Also, I’m ready to consume all the pros and cons that come along with this profession.

Growing up, who was your role model?

My role model growing up was my mother an individual who has worked more than one job concurrently to keep us afloat and never complained about anything even when I could tell she was down. 

Who was your favorite team and player in the NFL and why?

My favorite team is Washington Redskins, because of Sean Taylor who is my favorite player of all time.

What was the most tragic event that ever happened in your life and how did you overcome it?

The most tragic event that has happened to my family was when our house caught on fire the weekend before school started. I was able to overcome it because how young I was and not really taking notice the struggle that we really in. We lived in a hotel for three months, but I had the time of my life as kid. I had a swimming pool, game room, and buffet food everyday. 

If you were to have dinner with three people dead or alive who would it be?

If i could have dinner with three people dead or alive it would be 1.God 2. Grandfather (Pop Pop) 3. Sean Taylor and in that order.

With your first paycheck what would you buy?

With my first pay check I am going to buy a hibachi dinner with double rice, double shrimp, and double filet mignon.