2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Harry Ballard III, WR, Arkansas-Pine Bluff

• Name: Harry Ballard III
• Height: 6’3”
• Weight: 205 lbs
• Position: WR
• College: University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff
• Twitter: @THE_HB3
• Instagram: harry_ballard12

What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
I am a Health Education major. I have participated in community outreach by going to local elementary schools and reading to kids. I have occasionally been out with the golf team.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?
Leadership. I see myself as a leader on the field and I try to motivate my teammates as best I can.

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
We have a lot of good weapons on the field although I would definitely say that I am the go-to receiver. I usually start on the field as the outside receiver. Yet, I’m moved around in order to create mismatches. I can be a playmaker on the outside and in the slot. 

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
When I was in Junior College, I faced off against Johnathan Abram who currently plays for the Raiders. I’ve also lined up against Jeff Gladney who was the 1st round pick of the Vikings this year. Both of those guys really made me better, and we gained a healthy respect for one another.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
Shawn Steele. He is a very polished DB. He has very good technique and really spends time working on his game. He’s a quiet sneaky guy.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
Right out of high school, I went to junior college because I didn’t qualify academically. That taught me a lot, and I started to take class more seriously. I’m happy to say that I am very happy with where my grades are today, and my academic standing has allowed me to continue playing the game that I love.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
Track & Field. Even though I only participated my senior year of high school, I actually had schools recruit me in track. Some of my personal bests include a 6’8″ high jump and 22′ 5.25″ long jump. I also ran the 200m in 22.37 sec and had an unofficial 100m of about 10.31 sec.

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What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I’m very proud of never giving up. I’ve been put on the wrong end of the stick before, and I’ve been able to overcome it. I’ve been able to stay positive through all of my adversity.

My biggest achievement would be having a successful injury free year in 2019 receiving All-SWAC Second Team recognition. 

Describe one of the most memorable plays or moments of your collegiate career.
One of the most memorable plays that I have had occurred in high school when I was able to return a 90 yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

Last year against Tennessee State, we had a game winning drive when I was able to haul in 3 consecutive passes proving that I can be a reliable target in the clutch.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
Being from St. Louis, I’m still a Rams fan even though they moved to LA. One of my favorite players is DeAndre Hopkins. He’s a very hard worker and one of the best to model your game after.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
I listen to Hip hop and R&B. Recently, I’ve been listening to guys like Rod Wave, Kevin Gates and Drake. Watching receiver highlights gets me pumped before games.

What is your favorite comfort food?
I love pasta. So, I gotta go with some chicken alfredo from Olive Garden.

Do you have a favorite movie or actor?
The TV shows that I have been watching lately are The Umbrella Academy and Lucifer.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies?
I like to stay active. So, I like to play volleyball, bowling and golf.

Who or what motivates you the most?
My mom. She has given me her everything over the years making the best of our situation. I hope to one day provide for my family and lift the financial burdens.