2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Tarik Black, WR, Texas

• Name: Tarik Black
• Height: 6’3”
• Weight: 213 lbs.
• Position: WR
• College: University of Texas
• Twitter: LetmeRockk_
• Instagram: tarikblack7

Pro Day Results:
4.53-40yd

40”-vertical
11’0”-broad jump
6.91-3 cone
4.26-short shuttle
15-bench reps

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?

I earned my Bachelor’s at Michigan in General Studies with a minor in Entrepreneurship before transferring to Texas. I was able to volunteer along with the Michigan football team in the Youth Impact Program. That allowed us to serve the kids from Detroit and help teach them about life and growing up in the inner cities.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?
My best quality is that I have a “No Quit” mentality. I never give up and I always come back stronger. The team always knows that I have their back, and that I’m willing to do whatever it takes.

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
I have a lot of versatility. I can play inside and outside. I’m also willing to do anything on special teams. I can run every route. I’m a redzone and downfield threat. Just put me in somewhere and I’ll know what to do.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
Playing against Ohio State CB Jeff Okudah was a good match up. He was drafted 3rd overall by the Lions in 2020.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
Devin Bush is the best player that I ever had as a teammate. He was an impact player and leader of the Michigan defense.

I’ve had some great teammates at Texas as well including Sam Ehlinger, Brennan Eagles and Joseph Ossai. Yet, the guy that impresses me the most is Caden Sterns.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
I was a high recruit coming into Michigan, and I was expected to have an immediate impact. I was doing well my first few games until I broke my left foot the 3rd game of the season. I was able to grind away and heal up for the following season. Yet, into fall camp a few days before our first game, I ended up breaking my right foot. I had an injury 2 years in a row that really set me back. I was fortunate to have the support of my family, friends, teammates and most importantly my faith in God. I had to stay focused on my goals and never quit. I had to keep working to get healthy and prepare for this day. I’ve come this far, and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
I ran track all throughout high school. Yet, I would probably play basketball. It was the first sport that I ever played, and I ended up moving on from basketball my freshman year of high school in order to focus on football.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I am most proud of earning my scholarship, being able to graduate from Michigan and having the opportunity to further my playing career at Texas and beyond. I started a movement in Connecticut. It hasn’t really been the place that recruiters typically come to find football players, and I’m glad that I was able to help lead the way.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
The first game where I was coming back from my second injury, I had a great highlight. We were playing against Penn State and just coming out of a time out. We came out of the huddle, and everyone knew that I was getting the ball. We had a receiver run an out route on my side. The DB was in cover 3, and he hesitated on the underneath receiver which left me open on a go route. I scored a touchdown that was eventually called back due to a hold. We didn’t score the points, but it was nevertheless a great highlight.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
Usain Bolt is one of my favorite athletes because he’s so fast. A couple receivers that I like are Devonte Adams and Julio Jones. They’re able to use their size and physicality to make great plays.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
One of my favorite music artists is J Cole.

What is your favorite comfort food?
Raising Cane’s chicken tenders and fries.

Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
My favorite actor is Mike Epps. SpongeBob is my favorite TV show. All About the Benjamins is one of my favorite movies.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
I like to play basketball when I can. I also like to dance.

Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
I play football because I love the game. I’ve been playing since I was 8. I want to play and be around the game. I want it to be part of my life forever. Football is also a great way of networking with teammates, coaches and trainers. You get to know a lot of great people along the way. I enjoy the game and embrace the journey.