2025 Interview with Grady McLafferty from Upper Arlington

 

Grady McLafferty

Upper Arlington

Defensive End and Defensive Tackle

2026

6’2, 250 lbs.

Jersey Number: 5

Awards won or earned:

Varsity Letterman 2025

HUDL LINK: http://www.hudl.com/v/2SC8QB

Post a small recap of last season with personal highlights and any other big moments you have and memories you have from last season, whether it be a game, the bus ride to or from the game, or any other thing that sticks out.

Last season was definitely one to remember. I finally got over my sophomore slump and found a role in the defense. I was finding my way into games, even playing behind a guy like Cal Thrush. I was finally catching a groove until I broke my thumb against Coffman, which would end up limiting me for the remainder of the season. My favorite moments from last season would have to be the first Olentangy Liberty game. It was just such a crazy game going back and forth, and the way it ended on a 4th down stop was perfect.

How long have you played football, and who or what got you started playing?

I started playing football in 3rd grade and actually quit because back then I was scared of the contact. But I wanted to give it a second chance in high school. My grandpa played a huge role in me playing football again. He would love to come to games and love to watch me play. Unfortunately, he passed in February due to cancer. But this season I have all the motivation in the world to make him proud because I know he’s still watching.

What makes you a good teammate?

A good teammate is someone that is respected. A lot of guys that mess around and try to become leaders in critical moments aren’t taken seriously. Good teammates have fun but get their work done and do what is needed to strive for the ultimate goal of winning a state championship. A true captain or leader of a team will call you out when you’re slacking off or not doing what you’re supposed to. But he will also congratulate you on your accomplishments and victories.

Why should a college coach recruit you?

You should recruit me because I’m coachable, disciplined, and a hard worker on and off the field. I have a great coaching staff at Upper Arlington that has prepared me for the next level. I bring energy; a team always needs someone to get the team going, and I feel I’m that. I’m constantly improving; even with my lack of experience, I feel like I’m still competing and dominating guys that have played their entire lives. So I feel like my best form of my game is yet to be seen.

Is there a college or pro player that you pattern your game after?

I always wanted to be like Maxx Crosby. He is so talented with his approach to pass rush. Also Quinnen Williams, he’s a beast on the line. I’d hate to go up against a guy like that.

What do you feel is the best part of your game?

Pass rushing is my strong suit. With my basketball background, I definitely have quickness and can get off the ball in a hurry. Also, I have developed an artillery of pass rush moves to put pressure on the quarterback and make him panic.

What have you done during the off-season to improve your game?

I have gotten a lot stronger. The OCC is no joke; every team will have an offensive lineman going to play in college somewhere. So I started working with a football-specific lifting coach to help me reach my goals. I’ve also improved my run game. Last year that was one of the weaker sides of my game, so I decided to really put an emphasis on it this offseason.

Could you share with the readers some of the camps that you have attended and some of the biggest lessons you have learned?

This summer I attended Tiffin, Northwestern, and Miami. I also plan to come to Denison and Ohio Wesleyan to wrap up my camp schedule. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that attention to detail is everything. If your technique is there, you will win reps off offensive linemen who just sort of throw their bodies at you. Also, at these camps, coaches are there to meet you and see how you are off the field. Sure, they would love to see you run record-breaking times. But most of them have already watched your film and are there just to meet you and see how you are as a person.

Who is the best player that you have faced in a game, along with the team he was on?

Luke Grover from Olentangy. He was so big and so quick. Not surprised he is going to play at a place like Cincinnati.

Defensive end or defensive tackle, which one do you feel you are better at?

Defensive End. Just because I like to have the space and have the ability to be creative with moves. Also, that is the position I’ve played the most at, so that familiarity with it all is comforting.

What type of offensive lineman is the toughest to go up against?

Ones with very good hands. Offensive linemen who are quick and powerful with their hands are always the guys that give defensive linemen issues. Along with the hands, a good base to fall back on. Powerful legs that will help them in both the pass and run game.

What is the toughest offense to prepare for?

An offense with a mobile quarterback. You see it now in the NFL with guys like Lamar Jackson and back then with guys like Tim Tebow and Mike Vick. It’s tough to defend a pass, and then the guy takes off and still gains 5 yards after they should’ve gained none.

If you earn an invite to play in any of the all-star games after the season, will you?

It will depend on where my recruitment is at the time. I would be honored to be selected, though.

What scares you?

Failure. That has always been my biggest fear. Because if you fail, then you have to ask yourself if you could’ve done more to prevent what happened.

What is your favorite class or subject?

Economics or Business. I’ve already taken many classes on the subject and plan to take more my senior year and into college. I think I get it from my dad; he graduated from Ohio State with an accounting degree.

What is your dream job?

I’m not sure yet. Obviously if I could play in the NFL, that would be the dream. But if that doesn’t work out, I would love to become something that is involved with my degree.

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