Dylan McCarthy: 2022 Pro Prospect Interview
Name: Dylan McCarthy
School: University of Saint Mary
Position: OG/C
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 315
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
I had a lot of personal goals that I strive for on the field. One of which is maximum effort at all times. Another is to help lead the younger players so that the team is better off when I graduate. I believe that I achieved both of those tasks. I ended up grading out the highest on my offensive line in both production and doing the proper footwork/knowledge of the play by a large margin.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
I believe this extra year of football has given me the chance to take it all in. Actually understand the playbook on a deeper level. It also gave me some extra time to mentor the younger guys which is very important to me.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
They would definitely describe me as a team-first player. I have always done whatever the team needed most. I was a leader on and off the field having been named team captain twice as well as a two year member of the campuses student-athlete leadership team. I also received multiple academic awards. In my two years here at Saint Mary, I have started at 4 of the five positions on OL and graded out the best regardless of location. That leads me to my next trait they would describe as which is versatile. I am always willing to step out of my comfort zone in order to help the team succeed.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
If I am studying my own film, I immediately look for any bad tendencies or missteps. My first step, leverage, place of contact; all of that is important to me in order to develop and succeed. If I am studying others, I watch for tendencies and tells. Things that give me any type of leg up on the competition. I take pride in my opponent scouting.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
My versatility for sure. I am willing to do anything to help the team win. I also have good upper body strength on the field. It helps me guide the defensive lineman/linebacker where I need them to go.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I have been working out 5 days a week. 3 heavy lifting and 2 speed days. I am attending the BSN National Scouting combine in February/March and I want to stand out in every aspect. I also am working with my position coach to better my Offensive Line techniques.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I have the ability to always maintain my optimism. I believe that has helped me become a better leader for my team. Even if we are down, I try to maintain a level head and see the bright side to things. Another thing is my work ethic. My family was hit hard during the recession in 2008. I witnessed my father work two jobs while attending school full time and saw my mother work 45 hours a week at target just to make ends meet. They set the example that I try to portray to others. I always ask my coaches for things I can improve upon and try to gain a perspective other than my own in terms of personal development.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
You’ll be getting a high effort individual. Even if there is an aspect of my game that needs development, I will work on it outside of practice and meetings in order to grow. Whatever I am asked to do for the team, I do not hesitate to do it. I have good arm length and good strength. I do not easily lose ground and play whistle to whistle. If there is any way I can improve and develop as a player and leader, I put my pride to the side and listen to the coaching points. I make them a part of my game.
