He believes he's the best running back in the 2014 NFL Draft, and he has an interesting backstory on why he wears number 34. Confidence certainly isn't lacking for Carlos Hyde on or off the field.
College Football 24/7 caught up with the former Ohio State running back during his visit to NFL Network and put him on the clock.
What's this whole draft process been like for you?
Carlos Hyde:This process has been good. But I think I'm at the point where I'm ready for it to be over. I'm ready for the draft to get started, but it's been good.
What's been the most stressful part of the process for you?
CH:It hasn't been too much stress other than when I hurt my hamstring. That part kind of got me down a bit. I was able to get back out there, get some work done on it and get back on it.
Any visits scheduled with teams over the next couple of weeks?
CH:I have a bunch of visits set up for the month of April. I haven't met any teams yet, but in the month of April I will. I can't list them all, but my frequent flyer miles will be up, so that's good.
Was there an NFL team you grew up rooting for as a kid?
CH:I don't have a favorite NFL team. I've never had one. I'm a player guy; I like to watch certain players.
So any player you grew up watching that you model your game after?
CH:I would say Ricky Williams. When I was a kid, that's who I'd watch. That's why I wear number 34 now.
There's been a lot of talks about no running backs in the first round this year. What makes you the guy that can go in the first?
CH:I'm an every-down back, and I bring that passion to the game. I feel like I'm a game changer. I can get in there and switch things around, get that momentum going for the offense. There will be times when the offense isn't rolling and things aren't clicking, then that's when the coach can say, "Let's give the ball to Carlos." Then everybody can feed off of that.
Catching the ball is important for backs in the NFL. What do you tell teams about your hands?
CH:I actually showed them at pro day. I did a great job of catching the ball and showing coaches I can catch. Also on my film, you see me making catches and getting up field. Personally, I feel like I have great hands. If not the best, great hands. I love catching the ball. I love the opportunity to get out there and run a route, then make a big catch. Take a short catch and turn it into a big gain.
You were the first running back under Urban Meyer to rush for 1,000 yards. What did you learn from him?
CH:I learned from him that every day you have to compete. Every day. There's not a day that goes by that you're not going to be competing. I also learned there's no time to be a little boy, you have to grow up right now and become a grown man. Take care of your responsibilities on and off the field.
You're not the only Buckeye who could go in the first round this year. How much do you talk to Bradley Roby and Ryan Shazier?
CH:I haven't really been talking to them much lately. I'm sure they're doing their thing, and I'm actually kind of busy right now, so it's tough to find time to find out what's going on with them. I'm sure they're handling their business.
Any idea of what your draft-day plans are?
CH:I'm actually going fishing with a couple of my buddies on draft day. That's my plan. I'll be out fishing for some big tuna, Bluefin and all that while the draft's going on.
Follow Bryan Fischer on Twitter @BryanDFischer.
