2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Trae Meadows, DB, Western Kentucky
- Name: Trae Meadows
- Height: 6’1”
- Weight: 185 lbs
- Position: CB
- College: Western Kentucky University
- Twitter: @1SUPAfuture
- Instagram: supafuture_
Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
Out of high school, I attended Navy prep school with intentions of attending the Naval Academy. I later moved on to NC State, Garden City Community College, and eventually wound up at Western Kentucky. My experience at WKU has been great. The campus is very nice. Oftentimes, I would end up at Downing Student Union which is a great hangout for food and recreation. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to participate in much else in school because my main focus was on academics and football.
What do your teammates say is your best quality?
One of my best qualities is my football IQ. I’m able to recognize plays and play fast with a Dawg mentality. I’m also a leader on and off the field.
What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
I played a big role in the secondary during my time at WKU. In 2019, I started every game at outside corner. Yet, in 2020, I played in the nickel position. I am a dynamic playmaker that is able to move around and play different positions. Back in high school, I mainly played FS. I’m very versatile, and I know what it takes to play any position in the secondary. I’m comfortable playing press and zone cover schemes. I’m also a huge asset on special teams. I’ve played on almost all units, and I have 2 career blocked kicks to my record.
Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
I’ve had some great one-on-one matchups during my time in college. Tutu Atwell and Austin Watkins come to mind. Atwell is a quick, speedy receiver that is dangerous in the slot, whereas Watkins is a bigger more physical playmaker on the outside that runs great routes and knows how to high point the ball. Playing against different kinds of receivers has helped me develop good technique. You have to have the ability to adjust against players with different skill sets.
Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
Jahcour Pearson is an exciting playmaker that I’ve been able to practice with regularly. I’m thankful to have him as a teammate, and that we were able to help make each other better.
DeAngelo Malone is a heck of a competitor. He’s one of the best players that I’ve ever seen. Both he and Jahcour just have that X-Factor that allows them to change the game.
Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
My transfer experience has been my biggest struggle. Moving from place to place isn’t easy, especially for a young adult trying to make it on his own. With every opportunity, I had to build new relationships, learn a new system and eventually be a solid contributor on the team.
NC State was where I always wanted to go when I was younger, but unfortunately that didn’t work out. JUCO was a grind. It humbled me and molded me into the person that I am today. And getting to WKU has been a huge blessing. I’ve been a productive player and team leader. My experience there has put me on the map with scouts that have opened up windows of opportunity. Being invited to the College Gridiron Showcase was great. I was able to talk with scouts as well as showcase my abilities on the field. I’m truly ready for the next phase of my life.
If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
I played a lot of sports growing up. I would probably say baseball or track. I was fairly good in track in high school running the 200m, 400m, 4x 200, and 4 x 400. My fastest time in the 400m was 50.5 seconds, I was conference champion in the 200m, and our team made it to states in the 4 x 400m relay.
What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
One of my proudest moments was winning the State Championship my junior year of high school. We almost won it 2 years in a row, but couldn’t due to a technicality. My biggest achievement in college was being named First Team All-Conference by PFF.
Describe some of your most memorable moments of your collegiate career.
I’ve had some great memories on the field. My best memory has to be back in my freshman year at NC State when I played my first defensive snap in the Independence Bowl against Vanderbilt and got an Int. At Garden City CC, I had a 95-yard Int return for a touchdown. At WKU in 2020, we played against UAB and I had an Int and forced a fumble in that game.
Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
I’m from North Carolina, and the Carolina Panthers have always been my favorite team. One of my favorite players ever has to be Deion Sanders. Right now, I like to watch guys like Jalen Ramsey. We have a similar body type, and I study how he is able to dominate on the field.
Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
Future is my favorite music artist. On game day, I will either listen to him, NBA YoungBoy, Young Thug or Lil Keed.
What is your favorite comfort food?
My Grandmother’s sweet potato pie.
Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
My favorite movie is Friday. Family Guy is one of my favorite TV shows. Some of my favorite actors include Denzel Washington, Will Smith and Jamie Foxx.
What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
In my spare time I like to chill with my family. I like to listen to music or watch Netflix.
Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
I love playing football. I hope to give myself an opportunity to provide for my family. My older brother Quan is someone that motivates me the most. I grew up watching him play football, and I hope to make him proud as I begin my professional career.
Assistant Director of Scouting for the Hula Bowl and long-time writer for NFL Draft Diamonds.