2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Derrick McClendon, LB, Washburn University

• Name: Derrick McClendon
• Position: LB
• College: Washburn University
• Height: 5’10”
• Weight: 225 lbs
• Twitter: @DerrickMcClendo
• Instagram: @deemacc5

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

I was a little kid around 5 and I just stumbled upon A Football Life and it was Emmitt Smith’s episode and I just saw the game from a different perspective at a young age it was love at first sight.

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

When I’m on the field I feel like the energy I bring effects the intensity and the physicality of the game especially playing inside/outside linebacker my teammates look to me and know I’m doing to bring it play in and play out.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Going to war with my guys on Friday nights and Saturday and also all conferencing for every school I’ve played for (high school, JUCO, Division 2) I feel like that’s been pretty cool to do.

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

Sean Taylor because of the way he played the game, between the physicality he played with and the all out playmaking abilities if he finished his career he might’ve been the greatest safety ever.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

4-2-5 defense because I’m versatile so I could play the nickel safety or the strong side LB, the reason I chose this one is because of the freedom to be uncovered alot and playing in the backfield being on the same side as the 5 and the 3 tech.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

No question my mom but no disrespect to my father but ever since I can remember she’s been getting up every morning around 5/6 am working her tail off to help provide for my brothers and I want to help speed up however long she has to work so she can retire and enjoy life not saying that she already doesn’t.

What should we know about Derrick McClendon the person?

Outside the game I’m a chill family oriented guy who loves to joke around have a good time and likes to keep his head down focused on getting my degrees.

What stands out about your film the most?

Ability to play the football in the air and force turnovers, sideline to sideline all out pursuit type linebacker, the ability to rush the QB and fast play recognition.

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

Prayer usually gets the job done or at least puts my mind at enough ease to make the best decision to go about whatever challenges I go through whether in life or the football field.

What would a team get in a player like you?

An immediate glue guy to whatever culture that’s established, a low maintenance high production type of player with a good feel for the game and a guy with great energy that can affect an entire organization.

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

I want to be a professional player for a good team.

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

Chris Sanders, was my linebacker teammate in Juco and along with me was first-team all-conference, and I feel like he didn’t get the recognition he deserved after that season.