2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Mike Garrett Jr, DB, Abilene Christian University

• Name: Mike Garrett Jr
• Position: DB
• College: Abilene Christian University
• Height: 6’1″
• Weight: 190 lbs
• Twitter: @MGJ_29
• Instagram: @mgj_29

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

I decided to be a football player because I really wanted to be like my Dad, who played football at LSU. Being exposed to a big time college football program, I had an opportunity to meet so many great players at LSU like Odell Beckham Jr (my dad actually played with his dad), Jarvis Landry, Leonard Fournette, Tre’Davious White, and so many others.

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

The type of energy I bring onto the football field is contagious! I will always come from a place of positive accountability. My objective is really to emit positive energy that internally will get myself going but my teammates as well. Whether it’s making a big play in the game, or making sure we stay as a cohesive unit when things don’t go our way.

What sets you apart from other defensive backs?

What sets my apart from other defensive backs is my knowledge and versatility. I have the ability to cover receivers in slot and also receivers on the outside. My ball skills are unmatched. I typically can finish by intercepting the the ball or causing a pass breakup. I have worked extremely hard on polishing my footwork. As a result, I am able to identify various route concepts, and not have any wasted steps coming in and/or out of my break. Lastly, I take a lot of pride in being a student of the game. I watch countless hours of film, along with taking detailed notes on the opposing offense. By doing this, it has allowed me to identify various tendencies and be able to play a step or two faster to make more plays.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

A favorite moment in my football life was definitely playing against Oklahoma State in my first game after transferring out of junior college. Another favorite moment was having my first interception and touchdown in eighth grade.

What is your favorite coverage and why?

My favorite coverage would be any type of zone cover (cover 2, cover 3, cover 4) because it gives me the opportunity to play with zone eyes. Playing with zones eyes gives me the ability to make more plays on the ball, read the quarterback’s eyes, and identify route concepts so I can fully dissect what play an offense is running.

How do you prepare for games?

I prepare for games by breaking down my opponents past games in the current season and last season. I breakdown the offensive formation and the route tree for every pass eligible player. I then memorize every route tree in every pass formation of the offense in order to gain an extra step or two in coverage. In result, this allows me to make more plays in coverage and generate more turnovers.

What should we know about Mike Garrett Jr the person?

What you should now about Mike Garrett Jr is that I’m a high character person who has strong convictions and beliefs. I stand on my faith, family, and work ethic. I’m someone who’s wants to see everyone win, and is willing to help those who are in need. I know my grit and resiliency has allowed me to be in the position that I’m currently in, it has gotten me to this point, and it’s going to get me where I want to be.

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

I would hang out with Tyrann Mathieu because I would want to pick his brain and learn more about the game from him.

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

I handle challenges in life and on the football field is through my faith. I was raised to have a strong faith and I lean on that in any obstacles in my life.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would be getting a player who wants to make an impact on the game; either at my position or on special teams.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

The most underrated teammate at my school I would say is Triston Anderson. The receiver he is covering is guaranteed locked while in press man and he keeps his game polished by rarely taking days off.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

I am looking forward to the impact I will have not only at my position but also on special teams. I am also looking forward to success this team will accomplish this season with the standard and competition being raised.