2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Maverick Gamble, SS, Merrimack College

• Name: Maverick Gamble
• Height: 5’10”
• Weight: 200 lbs
• Position: DB
• College: Merrimack College
• Twitter: @MGamble22

Tell us about your university/college. Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?

Merrimack is a small Catholic school located in North Andover, MA. It’s a place that regardless of where you come, you can grow and evolve as a person while meeting people from all over the world, making lifelong friendships with people you’d think you never meet. Outside of football, I’m a member of the finance club. The professor that runs the club, Mary Papazian, is someone I look up to in terms of the career path I want to take outside of football.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?

That I’m disciplined, hard working, and trustworthy.

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?

I’m someone that leads by example. If anyone has questions on anything or if they’re seeking information on the defensive side of the ball I’m always there to fill them in. I’d definitely say I make an impact playing man coverage in the slot at nickel.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?

Deont’e Harris. He’s currently on the New Orleans Saints and made the Pro Bowl as a return specialist this past year.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?

My guy Olan Abner. He’s faced so much adversity throughout his playing career. In Massachusetts he was an all-state running back and linebacker, and ended up going to Fork Union Military School due to academics. From there, he went to Stony Brook but unfortunately tore his ACL, went through some difficult times with his coaching staff which eventually led him to transferring to Merrimack. A great player but even smarter person inside and outside the classroom. Graduated Merrimack with a 4.0 GPA in Economics, and he’s getting his masters as we speak. Been through 3 ACL surgeries, and 2 of them were at Merrimack. Look for him to make a big impact this fall in our defense.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.

In my junior year of high school in my 2nd game of the season I fractured my foot which led to me missing most of the season. For most high school players, junior year is probably the most important in terms of recruiting. I was very disappointed because I knew that I was due for a good year, but God had different plans for me. My senior year went exactly how I planned it to go and on top of that, my team went undefeated and won the State Championship.

Check out NFL Draft Diamonds 2021 Small School Rankings

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?

Baseball, when I was younger I liked it more than football.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?

I will be the first person in my family to get a degree.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.

My first career interception my sophomore season. We were at St. Anselm, and it was a game that pretty much went back and forth. It was a 4th down play late in the 3rd Quarter, and I was in man coverage, the ball got tipped, and I was there to make the play.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?

My favorite athlete would be Floyd Mayweather based on his work ethic and his production throughout his career. I’d say I model my game after Tyrann Matthieu and Budda Baker

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?

Right now I’d have to say Roddy Ricch, but before games, I like to bump Pop smoke, G Herbo, Rah swish, Q da fool, Xanman, and Keyvo400.

What is your favorite comfort food?

Back home in PG, Maryland we have this spot in Upper Marlboro called the Amish Market. They have these pretzel logs filled with chicken, bacon, ranch, and Swiss cheese. Best creation on earth.

Do you have a favorite movie or actor?

Denzel Washington. My favorite movie he did was when he played Malcom X in the Historical drama made in his memory.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?

I’m kind of a football junkie so watching tape is like my second hobbie, because it makes the game easier. Aside from that, I enjoy hanging out with my friends, watching movies, reading, and I also can cook. Cooking actually relaxes me and gives me a sense of peace. 

Who or what motivates you the most?

The desire to be the best. Obviously my parents play a big part as to why I play the game and I want to do my part in taking care of them because they’ve been my biggest support system throughout my playing career. But other than that, I have a passion for the game that’s unbelievable, and my goal is to be the best player I could possibly be. I take this game personally, and I know my best football is ahead of me. Knowing that, motivates me enough.