Where are They Now Interview: North Alabama CB Maurice Carnell Preps for NFL Workouts
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
There are several surefire facts about Maurice Carnell IV, but one characteristic that rises above his standout play at the collegiate level is his drive to succeed. Carnell’s path from the high school to the collegiate ranks was not easy, neither will be his next challenge – making a NFL roster. But, given Carnell’s track record, safe to bet on him overcoming yet another obstacle on his way to success.
Carnell started out his high school career with Lincoln in the San Diego area. Even then, Carnell was one of the best athletes on the field regardless of the opponent. After high school, Grossmont Community College signed Carnell finding his perfect fit at corner. Grossmont got more than they could have hoped for with Carnell seeing him earn first team All-Conference honors as a freshman and taking home end of season team Defensive Player of the Year Award.
When his playing days at Grossmont were over after earning consecutive All-Conference honors, a transcript snafu kept Carnell from matriculating to Utah State finding a home at North Alabama. As the saying goes, defense travels – and that is exactly what Carnell did for the Lions. In 2016, Carnell tallied 36 tackles with 12 passes broken up securing two interceptions. His blazing speed was on full display during his senior year compiling a stat line of 28 tackles, 22 solo, with eight passes defended and four interceptions that included a pick-six in 10 games played. For all his hard work, the 5-11, 180 pound, defender earned second team All-Super Region 2 honors in 2017 from Don Hansen.
Everywhere Carnell has been, he has risen to the occasion consistently being recognized for his play on the field. RNG last caught up with Carnell in July of 2015, and now sits down with him for a catch-up interview getting an overview on his two years at North Alabama and how he is preparing for NFL showcase workouts.
Interview
Maurice, your football journey has been a long one from Lincoln High School to Grossmont, and then to North Alabama. Looking back at all that you’ve been through, what has the college football experience been like for you?
“The college football experience has been amazing – to still play after high school and get a free education, just amazing. The big games, the college campus and in a college town… just playing football at the next level is a great feeling. I feel truly blessed to play in college, and hope to further extend my playing days.”
How did your senior season with the Lions play out?
“As a team, it wasn’t the season we were expecting (5-5). The year before, was our fourth year in a row as conference champs making the playoffs. I wanted a fifth year and national title but we had some setbacks and a lot of injuries. For myself, I went into the year wanting to double my stats. That is what I did. I had a great season. I put everything into that offseason, it showed up my senior year.”
Which areas of your game saw the most improvement in 2017?
“That is a good question. I improved everywhere, but where I think I improved most reading offenses. I watched more film than the year before. With experience, I knew what to expect. The game speed, formations, and knowing what was going to happen made the game easier. I was waiting on the ball and knew what was going to happen before it happened.”
You’ve seen enough corners play in college and watching NFL games, how does your skillset stack up against others?
“I’m an all-around corner. I can cover, come up in run support, tackle, press, play off, play inside or outside – I can do it all. That sets me apart from other cornerbacks. I am physical and aggressive. I follow the best guys, wherever they go I will be there. That puts me up there with a lot of corners. I know the game. You have to know the game and the routes. There is more to it than just being out there.”
Did you earn any postseason honors during your senior year?
“I was first team All-GSC (Gulf South), second team defense from Dan Hanson All-Super Region 2, and I am waiting to see if I get All-American honors.”
Have you been invited to any Senior Bowl events?
“I was invited to the SCS National Bowl in Florida. They were charging too much for me to go.”
What have you been working on this offseason?
“I’ve been working on getting bigger, faster, and stronger, and becoming a better athlete every day. I’ve been working on drills for my Pro Day and working on my 40.”
What is your workout schedule like on any given week getting ready for your Pro Day?
“My workout schedule Monday through Friday, I start at 7:00 a.m. and work until about 4:00 p.m. I get in two or three workouts, depending on the day, but the last part of the day is a massage or stretching. The most important part of working out is the recovery.”
Does UNA put on a Pro Day or will you attend a Pro Day at another school?
“I’m waiting to find out if UNA will have one or not. If not, I’m shooting for Jacksonville State’s (AL) Pro Day and I will try to make University of San Diego’s Pro Day.”
What is the process for you from here?
“I have an agent. I signed with my agent not that long ago. Now, I am just training every day and getting ready for the 40 and broad jump. Then the draft. Drafted or a free agent, we’ll see what happens from there.”
What are your goals for the Pro Day?
“My goal for the 40 is a low 4.4, at least an 11-foot broad jump, a 38-inch vertical, and I am shooting for 12-15 reps on bench press (at 225 pound). My position drills, that is second nature. That is something I do every day – that is beautiful and smooth.”
I like that. If you could send one message to every NFL head coach and/or general manager about yourself, what would you want them to know about Maurice Carnell?
“I would want them to know that I will come in and work my butt off each and every day. I will compete each day and compete with confidence. I am a guy that is a winner and has a championship attitude on and off the field. With me, there are no off the field troubles. Lastly, let’s win some games and some super bowls.”
Maurice, thanks for your time today and keep us posted on your Pro Day workouts.
“Yes, sir.”
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Photo credit: decaturdaily.com; No. 4 Maurice Carnell in action
Photo credit: Times Daily; No. 4 Maurice Carnell in action
Featured photo: North Alabama; No. 4 Maurice Carnell