2020 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Mike Witherspoon, CB, East Carolina University
Student-Athlete Profile:
- Mike Witherspoon
- East Carolina University
- DB
- 6’1”
- 194lbs.
- Hometown: Lawrenceville, GA
- Twitter: @Mikewitherspoo5
2018 Statistics:
- GP: 12
- Total Tackles: 35
- TFL: 2.0
- FR: 2
- BU: 5
- PD: 5
As an athlete, what is your motivation?
The competition with myself, just seeing how far I can push myself and knowing I can accomplish my dreams. My family is also a major driving force behind my why. They keep me strong and focused
What defines success for you?
Success in football is defined by your team. Setting goals and accomplishing them as a team determines whether you were successful or not as an individual. I believe that whatever you do in life you are successful if you are able to meet your goals and not lose your character while doing so.
What would your teammates say about the type of teammate you are?
I believe that my teammates would describe me as a competitive, reliable teammate. I love having fun with my teammates, but I also love putting in work and practicing with them.
What are some of your personal “rules” that you never break?
I make my bed every day and pray every night before getting back in it to go to sleep.
Who is the toughest player you’ve competed against during your collegiate career?
Kahlil Lewis from the University of Cincinnati. He is a great WR, it was challenging but fun going up against him.
Who is the best player in the NFL?
Aqib Talib. I’ve watched him be at the top of his game for years.
What is your team of choice on Madden, why?
Atlanta Falcons, that’s my hometown!
Failure is inevitable in life. How do you handle situations that don’t go in your favor?
I think the first most important thing one can do after failing is examining what went wrong in the situation. Understanding why you weren’t successful and then creating a plan to avoid the reasons can actually teach you more than success.
Is there a current/former NFL player that you model your game after?
Xavier Rhodes, I am constantly watching his highlight tapes.
Knowing what you do now, what would you go back and tell yourself as a High-School Freshman?
Never give up! Everything you are doing right now will pay off.
What is your go-to restaurant near campus?
Canes, I go there almost every day.
If your life was a book, what would its title be?
“Out the Mud.”
What song or artist do you like but rarely admit to liking?
Lizzo, Truth Hurts.
If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, living or deceased, who would it be and why?
I would want to have dinner with the Obamas. I feel as if they have accomplished so much, I would love the opportunity to sit down and hear all the wisdom they have to share.
Forty-years from now, what do you want to be remembered for?
I hope that my legacy will involve how much I helped benefit and improve my community, being a great family-centered man and a man of faith.
In 15 words or less, why should an NFL team invest in you?
I will work harder than anyone on the team, I will do everything for my team.
