Exclusive Interview: TE Chris Myarick, Temple University

Chris Myarick (@cmyarick) via Twitter

NFL

TSJ 101 Sports’ Exclusive Interview with 2019 NFL Draft Prospect, Chris Myarick

“The 2019 NFL Draft is officially open!” Those are the words that will echo in Nashville when Commissioner Roger Goodell signals the opening of the 2019 Draft. Two hundred fifty-three of the best collegiate prospects will have their dreams brought to fruition. One of those draft hopefuls will be Temple University tight end Chris Myarick.

TSJ had the pleasure of recently interviewing Chris. Myarick has recorded many accomplishments and accolades to his name, including being a nine-time #theStandard Player of the Game and a 3-time Academic All-Conference Selection.

After posting 14 catches for 146 yards and a touchdown this season, the Temple tight end has declared for the draft. Myarick showcased his incredible blocking skills and huge frame throughout his time as an Owl.

Khadeem Dennis: Did you have any role models growing up?

Chris Myarick: My biggest role models for me growing up were and continue to be my parents. They taught me right from wrong and how to be a man. As far as celebrities and athletes for role models, I can remember looking up to Vince Carter and Brian Dawkins, who both brought such a high amount of intensity to their games respectively.

KD: When did you start playing organized football?

CM: I began playing organized football in 2nd grade for the Wissahickon Braves in Roxborough Philadelphia, and then in 3rd grade for the North East Philadelphia Outlaws. After that, it was not until 8th grade where I played organized football for Cedarbrook Middle School, and then throughout high school.

KD: How hard was it to overcome breaking your collarbone prior to your Junior year of high school?

CM: It was a frustrating process for me because I was preparing to have a large role on the team for what some consider to be the most important season for recruiting. Knowing what you can add to a team and not being able to be on the field with your teammates is always frustrating. But the experience taught me to value every game and every snap.

KD: With Temple & Pitt as the only D1 schools recruiting you, what went into the decision to choose Temple?

CM: After visiting both campuses, I felt a stronger connection with Temple and could sense what the football program was on the brink of, despite just finishing a 2-10 season. My mom is also a graduate of Temple University which played a small role in my decision, but overall, I liked the feeling of the city school atmosphere more at Temple.

KD: You also played basketball and volleyball in high school. How did your 3-sport background help you at the collegiate level?

CM: I’m a believer that playing multiple sports will benefit your abilities in whichever sport you choose to be your focus. I think basketball and volleyball helped me develop with agility, endurance, and explosiveness within football. I think the other sports built a good foundation for me as an athlete and once I had a full year of weight training in college, it helped me grow a lot as a football player.

KD: As a walk-on, you didn’t receive your full scholarship until your Junior year. How emotional was that moment for you?

CM: Receiving a scholarship was a very emotional moment for me as it felt like a weight lifted off my back.

“It was special to me for coach [Geoff] Collins to announce it around my parents and all my teammates because it confirmed my feelings that I belonged with all the other scholarship players.”

Who hasn’t watched one of those videos scrolling down their Instagram feed where the hardworking walk-on is finally granted a full scholarship? Well, Chris Myarick actually lived it.

He gambled on himself, and it paid off. After all of the grinding, the broken collarbone, the decision to play for a 2-10 program, it was all worth it. Myarick finally received affirmation that he belonged. However, the scholarship didn’t mean that snaps would just be handed to the Philidelphia native.

KD: At Temple, you played alongside Kenny Yeboah, a John Mackey watchlist candidate prior to the start of your Senior year. How did he make you improve your game?

CM: Kenny kept me from being complacent in my role. Having a player of his caliber next to me meant I couldn’t get comfortable or regress any without losing time to him. Although we were competitive in that sense, we had a great relationship in which we could talk about anything we were seeing on the field to help each other when we were in the game. With Kenny being a few years younger than me, he helped me develop as a leader by being a great listener and having the drive to get better every year.

KD: What is your favorite aspect of playing the tight end position?

CM: My favorite aspect of the tight end position is the amount of impact and versatility we can have in a game. Being able to split out in the slot and run multiple routes on one play, and then line up on the line and trap the nose guard the next play shows how much a tight end can impact a game.

I like being able to do both these things because it means you must know the entirety of the offense and knowing that will put you in a great place to be successful.

KD: Do you have a favorite route?

CM: My favorite route is the tight end pop pass, the quick dump-off pass down the seam. It’s a great explosive play and gives us a chance to run in space. It is also very hard for linebackers to defend when there is a run option to go along with it.

KD: Are you listening to music before a game? If so, what are you listening to?

CM: I generally listen to whatever is being played in the locker room, so it is usually the latest rap and hip-hop songs and artists.

KD: What are some of your hobbies outside of football?

CM: I recently began learning how to play golf. I also like to play video games, play cards, watch movies, and spend time with friends.

“The most influential lesson I learned is to “control the controllable.” It is something I now live by and has been a great help when it comes to stress and frustration.”

Few players showcase the composure that Chris Myarick displays on and off the field. He’s seen his fair share of adversity yet he remains stoic. It isn’t hard to see that Myarick’s parents instilled great character within him. Myarick will remember his impact on this Owls team for years to come.

KD: One play that defines your career at Temple?

CM: I would say the second offensive play against Navy where I had a knockdown block on a 4-yard run on 1st down. I think that defines my career because I took so much pride in being in the trenches. I embraced the physicality of the run game. Although not the prettiest play, a four-yard gain on first down is efficient and effective and that’s what makes football such a chess match and why I love it.

KD: Who is the best player that you’ve played against?

CM: Most of the best players I have played against come from playing against the Temple defense in practice, with guys like Sharif Finch and Jacob Martin. But from an opposing team, I would say Shaquem Griffin from UCF, because of his motor and great football instincts. He flew around the entire field on every play.

KD: Three words that describe you as a draft prospect?

CM: Physical, reliable, fast-learner.

KD: What NFL players do you mold your game after?

CM: Rob Gronkowski, Jason Witten, Antonio Gates.

KD: If you could catch a pass from one NFL quarterback, who would it be and why?

CM: Drew Brees, because he is not only one of the most accurate passers of all time, but he also throws such a catchable ball all the time. Not too slow, not too fast.

KD: What will an NFL team get by selecting you?

CM: They will get someone who is prepared to grind and earn a role on the team. Someone who will be physical in the run game and have the ability to get open in the passing game. Also, someone who will learn the playbook at a quick pace.

KD: What can Temple fans expect from you going forward?

CM: Temple fans can expect a lot of alumni support from me and a great season ahead with a roster full of talent.

#TempleTUFF

Myarick showcased unflappable character throughout the interview. A team that gambles on Myarick will receive a kid who has all the intangibles of the greats. His leadership and passion for the game will be his driving force as he pushes to earn a roster spot.

His willingness as a blocker will also radiate on special teams and in offensive personnel packages. However you slice it, something tells me we haven’t heard the end of Chris Myarick, the football player. Follow Myarick on Twitter @cmyarick to follow his journey!

Photo Credit

Featured image courtesy of Chris Myarick (@cmyarick) via Twitter

Follow Khadeem on Twitter at @ReachingGod and TSJ’s NFL Department @TSJ101SportsNFL

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