Jackson State safety Robert McDaniel was recently the most impressive prospect in attendance at this year’s HBCU Legacy Bowl. McDaniel impressed all 32 teams. The rocked-up 6-foot-2, 213-pound safety had a 38.5-inch vertical, a 10-foot-8 broad jump, and ran a 4.55-second 40-yard dash.
McDaniel recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network. McDaniel discussed his experience at the HBCU Legacy Bowl, meeting with NFL teams in attendance, his versatility as a defensive back, and so much more.
JM: You recently participated, and drew a lot of buzz during the HBCU Legacy Bowl. What was the overall experience like?
Robert McDaniel: The overall experience was humbling. I was blessed to showcase my capabilities in front of all 32 NFL teams. I showed my versatility in front of scouts. I was explosive in the vertical and broad jump.
I showcased my speed and burst as well. During the practices, I also proved that you can play me in multiple positions, and my athleticism translates. You can line me up in the slot, or over the top. I can even play outside corner. I’ve been effective in the pass game and the run game.
JM: Your athletic testing results were fantastic, as you said. You leaped a 38.5-inch vertical and 10-foot-8 broad. You also ran a 4.55 in the 40, which is a terrific result for a 6-foot-2, 213-pound safety. What was the feedback you got from NFL teams on the results?
Robert McDaniel: I knew I was going to put up some great numbers. I basically just confirmed what they should have already known about me. I did exactly what I told them I was going to do. Showcasing what I’m capable of in front of NFL scouts was a humbling experience.
I’m continuing to take advantage of the opportunity in front of me.
JM: Did you meet with many scouts and NFL teams at the HBCU Legacy Bowl?
Robert McDaniel: I met with more than 16 teams. I had great meetings with the Ravens, Packers, Saints, Commanders, and Cardinals. Those are some of the teams that come to mind.
JM: There’s a lot of interest in you and it’s easy to see why. It sounds like the turnout was great. Were you satisfied? HBCU prospects don't always get the attention they deserve.
Robert McDaniel: It was a great turnout. I was appreciative of the exposure. There were a lot of sponsors and donors in attendance who supported the event. We definitely felt the love. We’re not just a charity case. We can actually play football at a high level.
We showcased that in front of all 32 teams. Having every team present, we couldn’t ask for a better opportunity. You can’t guarantee that every team will be at your Pro Day, so the HBCU Legacy Bowl was important. It gave us a chance to compete.
I proved I’m one of the top draft prospects coming from the HBCU level.
JM: We love to hear that. How would you describe your traits and abilities as a safety? Do you prefer to play deeper in coverage, or closer to the line of scrimmage? What is your overall identity as a defensive back?
Robert McDaniel: I don’t even like to classify myself as a defensive back. I’m just a football player at the end of the day. No matter where you put me, you can’t teach 6-foot-2, 213 pounds. I have a very aggressive style of play.
I can cover at a high level in man and zone coverage. I love tackling in the run game. I have a bunch of different attributes that help me stand out on tape. I can play multiple positions like safety and nickel.
I love highlighting my versatility. I’m tall and long. I move well vertically and horizontally. I’m an effective matchup defender as somebody who you need to game plan for.
JM: This has been outstanding. We've appreciated your time today. Why should an NFL team use one of their draft picks on Robert McDaniel?
Robert McDaniel: A team should definitely use a draft pick on me because I’m a winner. I’m a natural-born grinder. I embrace the grind. You’re going to get somebody who’s a dog. I make plays.
I love showcasing what I can do. I love working hard. You’re going to get somebody who can cover. I’m a leader. I’m going to be a force to be reckoned with at the next level.
I’m an aggressive player. You have to account for me. I’m going to make a big impact.
