2022 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Ryder Varga, LB, University of Regina

• Name: Ryder Varga
• Position: Linebacker
• College: University of Regina
• Height: 6’3”
• Weight: 235lbs
• Twitter: @RyderVarga
• Instagram: @rydervarga

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2022 NFL Draft?

I think I’m a versatile linebacker who can excel in the box, rushing the passer, and also in zone and man coverage. I think my football IQ is very high as well and that really helps me put myself in situations to succeed.

At what age were you first interested in the sport of football?

Being born in Saskatchewan, I would have to say I was a Roughriders fan since the moment I was born. That being said, I didn’t start playing until I was about 10 years old.

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

That I am extremely coachable. I know the value of peer and self evaluation and try to get any advice I can that will help my game develop.

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?

I would donate to help find a cure for cancer. Everybody know’s someone who has had it or has been affected by it and finding the cure would save us from so much suffering.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

“Don’t compare your behind the scenes to someone else’s highlight reel.”

Who was your childhood hero?

Tom Brady. The man has such a drive to win and I try my best to emulate that passion in my life.

Who is the most underrated teammate in your locker room at your school?

I would have to say it’s Tanner Schmekel. He has been working his butt off and killing it on the field for as long as I can remember and he still hardly gets any recognition.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

I hate being late. I know time is money so I don’t want to waste anyone’s time.

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?

Definitely having the 2020 football season cancelled was the hardest moment for me. You grind all winter just to get on the field and play the game you love. When that was taken away you face the reality that it will be almost 2 years between my last game in 2019 and the first potential game in the fall of 2021. That being said, me and my team kept grinding and we cannot wait for the chance to be back on the field.

Tell me something about your school and why it is so special to you?

We have a really great locker room at the University and there’s countless memories of just hanging out with the guys in there between classes that I think we all miss.

What is your favorite snack food?

Would probably have to go with potato chips.

What is the best part of football?

Playing the game beside your brothers is a feeling that is hard to describe. Knowing you all have each other’s backs is a truly special feeling that is hard to replicate elsewhere.

If you could sell yourself in one sentence what would you say?

I am a natural born leader who loves to win and I’ll do anything in my power to help us win games.

If you could compare your play to one player in the NFL who would it be?

Dont’a Hightower. A really versatile inside linebacker who gets used as a defensive lineman in a lot of pass rush situations.

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why?

I would say Tom Brady, Luke Kuechly, and Ray Lewis. Talking to Tom about his mentality and how he changes the culture of a team would be so useful to take back to my University. Luke Kuechly and Ray Lewis would be great to talk to to pick up some linebacker tips and tricks to advance my game.