2022 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Markel Gladney, DB, Mississippi Valley State University

• Name: Markel Gladney
• Position: DB
• College: Mississippi Valley State University
• Height: 5’10”
• Weight: 185 lbs
• Twitter: @Markel_iam
• Instagram: @Iam_Markel2

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

As a football player going forward, I want to play in the NFL. It is a life long dream of mine and I plan on making it happen. I’m looking to attack and achieve every opportunity I get to play this game I love. I realize playing football past college is a blessing that many do not see and I’m going to work to put myself in position to maximize all my opportunities.

What type of energy do you bring onto the football field?

I am the energy. I feel like I bring swagg to the game. I get my teammates going and allow them to feed off my energy because you can’t play football without energy.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

I would hang with Tyrann Mathieu because he is my favorite player of all time. He made it cool to play hybrid safeties at the nickel because he can do so much to help you win. I feel like I have the same play style. I would definitely hang with him and pick his brain a bit.

What sets you apart from other defensive backs?

What sets me apart from other defensive backs is my instincts. I believe I’m a smart player, so I can see plays before they happen. Also, to add on top of that I’m a do it all defensive back. I can tackle, blitz, cover man, and cover zone. Whatever you need me to do I can get it done.

If there was a billboard with 5 of your traits on it which 5 would be up there?

Confident, funny, ambitious, dedicated, and intelligent.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

I probably would have to say staying in Mississippi and having the opportunity to play in front of my family.

How are you planning to prepare for the draft?

I’m just working out getting myself prepared for pro day. I am currently looking for an agent. I’m also still in grad school.

What should we know about Markel Gladney the person?

Markel Gladney, the person, is a fun, down to earth individual who prides himself on putting his all into every pursuit. I am hardworking, dedicated, and passionate. I come from humble beginnings, and I plan to use everything that has transpired in my life as motivation to catapult me to achieving my life goals.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I handle challenges the same way both on and off the field. I just control the things I can control and things I can’t I leave them to God and try to stay positive. I believe that everything happens for a reason.

What would a team get in a player like you?

They would get a hungry young leader that is ready to learn and work.

What areas of your game are you looking to improve the most?

I want to get faster and improve my man coverage.

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

I wanted to be a football player since I was like 3 years old. I used to sit and watch the games. I could tell you the players names and numbers. Then one day my daddy’s friend came to the house when I was like 5 years old and seen how much I liked football. He told my daddy they had a team and the rest was history.