McClendon Curtis: Path To The NFL Draft

By Simon Carroll

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, despite being an FCS school, has a history to be proud of when it comes to supplying the NFL with talent. Fifty-six Mocs have gone on to become professional football players; from Joe Kopcha back in 1929 to Cole Strange last year – with a certain Terrell Owens somewhere in between.

McClendon Curtis intends on being the next name to make that list, and despite some early adversity in his life has overcome every challenge thrown his way. The offensive lineman sits down with Simon Carroll to discuss his path to the NFL Draft:

New Home

McClendon Curtis may be months away from embarking upon an NFL career. But as a young child, this 6’5”, 330lb behemoth wasn’t guaranteed anything. Born in Dalton, Georgia, he and his mother travelled thirty minutes north, crossing state lines in search of a better life:

“Me and my mom moved to Chattanooga when I was two years old. We were homeless, and had to live in a women’s homeless shelter. My mom went to this church called ‘New Home’, where we met the pastor. He was a great man, helped us out and got us on our feet. I call him my dad – he is my dad basically. He and everybody in the church pretty much pitched in and helped raise me. And around five years old I started playing little league football. I didn’t really know much about it, but they were like ‘you’re big – you need to be out there’. So that was that!”

Football may have been the most natural fit for a man of McClendon’s dimensions. But in the early years it played second fiddle to a different sport, until he had to face the inevitable.

“I played basketball too, and if I’m honest that was my true love. I thought I was gonna go all the way with that. But I just kept growing. One day someone came to me and said ‘son – you’re gonna make your money playing football’. And I had to listen. I wasn’t totally convinced, but it did make me re-evaluate my future. I began on the d-line, before there was a change in my senior year at high school. I got switched to offensive line, and I’ve kinda never looked back.”

Becoming A Moc

McClendon Curtis attended Central High School in Chattanooga, and once he had found his true home on the offensive line became a standout for the Pounders’ football team. The ease at which he displaced opponents saw an uptick in interest from colleges, and as a three star recruit Curtis had scholarship offers from ten schools – including five from FBS programs. Despite that, he chose to stay in the city he and his mother made home fifteen years earlier. Curtis offers a unique explanation as to why he headed to a perceived smaller school to continue his education:

“The funny thing is, I truly didn’t know the difference between the FCS and FBS. That was one of the things that affected the decision! I originally wanted to go to App State; my high school head coach and their head coach were best friends, so I thought it would make sense. But I guess they didn’t need offensive linemen at the time. Chattanooga had originally offered me, but had a coaching change themselves. But Coach Arth came in and re-offered me, and I guess it just all worked out. I got to stay at home and play ball.”

Much like most student-athletes, Curtis saw a gradual introduction to the team. Appreciative of the process now, McClendon doesn’t mind admitting some frustration back then:

“My introduction to college football was pretty smooth. My redshirt year I was on scout team, which gave me an opportunity to learn. Studying the playbook, understanding my role and helping the team to prepare for upcoming opponents. It sounds silly now, but back then I really thought I had failed my family; I got upset thinking about them and what they’d done for me, and I felt like I should be playing. But my dad called me up and said ‘You’re seventeen. College is a different level – be patient’. He helped me get a better perspective of the journey. So from that point I just dedicated myself to getting better each year – I wouldn’t be wasting any time, playing or not.”

Building Character

Last year I was fortunate to speak to Patriots’ first round draft pick Cole Strange about his time at UTC. Both he and McClendon Curtis experienced two different coaching regimes during their Chattanooga careers. Curtis is happy to discuss his time learning under Tom Arth and Rusty Wright, and how they differed in approach to team building:

“Coach Arth and his team, they were good guys. They did have a heavy focus on the FBS dudes who came to UTC via the transfer portal. Whereas when Coach Wright came in, he didn’t care if you were FBS, FCS, walkon, whatever. The best guys would play, full stop. I’ve seen it with my own eyes, FBS guys come to Chatt and think it’s gonna be a cakewalk, and they soon learn that our practices were harder than what they were used to. And Coach Wright didn’t mess around – he would tell you outright, you could either play or you couldn’t play. And it wasn’t personal – he wanted you to be a success, but if you can’t put it all together he wouldn’t trust you to take the field.”

The Mocs have a storied history of success at the FCS level the last two decades, but UTC didn’t particularly live up to those standards during the Cole Strange/McClendon Curtis era. For Curtis, the difference between winning and losing came down to effort and dedication.

“I felt like, when it came to the end of the year and it was time to double down and bring it all in, you need to do the little things to be successful – they really matter. You gotta appreciate that when Cole was here, for the most part he was a part of an experienced roster. Then in 2021 we were playing with a bunch of young guys, some of whom knew they weren’t gonna make it at the next level and started to lose focus. They had their mind on other jobs, future careers, whilst Cole and I were striving to keep focused on football, encouraging our teammates to keep playing. Then last year, we lost a few games, and it told us a little bit about the character of the guys.”

A Polished Product

It is obvious as this interview progresses that McClendon Curtis is a thoughtful individual with a philosophical outlook on life. He’s also committed to hard work and making the most of opportunity; perhaps traits that, as a group, The Mocs as a team didn’t quite share his final years in Chattanooga.

“Losing happens – going undefeated is hard. Some heads dropped, lost love for the grind, thought the season was over. But not for me. I came back another year to win. I feel as a program in the Southern Conference, we maybe had the best talent. But other teams out there were more disciplined, had a better team because of it. They knew the little things mattered. And I know I had teammates who were amazing athletes, and I used to beg them to try it my way, Coach Wright’s way. Do everything you’re supposed to do, and see how much better things in life can be for you. It’s all about full commitment – I know those guys will figure it out one day.”

Despite not quite hitting the heights the team would have hoped, Curtis has no regrets about returning to UTC for the extra year that COVID offered. On a personal level, it gave him the chance to polish his game and leave school as the best version of himself:

“I think the decision to come back was the correct one. I wanted another opportunity to reach the playoffs, sadly something that didn’t happen. But it was more than that. Speaking to scouts twelve months ago, they wanted to see me play faster and finish more blocks. And both them and I felt it was a great opportunity to refine my leadership qualities. Be a vocal leader on that offensive line and that offense. I was happy to assume that role, I had been there for six years, and that was now my room. I had set an example for some time, now I was going to lead by example too. I think I’m a much better player and teammate now than I was a year ago.”

Finishing In Style

“Big man. Big body. Looks the part. Every NFL scout that went through Chattanooga this year that I talked to says, ‘That’s a pro.'”

Those are the words of Senior Bowl executive director Jim Nagy regarding McClendon Curtis, who knows a good football player when he sees one. But when did it occur to Curtis that he had a real shot of an NFL career?

“I think the lightbulb for me came on when those scouts started coming to see Cole, when things got busy for him. A Seahawks scout was there, and he said to me ‘dude, you can play at the next level’. Now your friends, your family, they tell you that stuff and you appreciate it but you stay grounded, stay humble. You know that the only opinion that matters is the NFL – they gotta want you. So when I heard it from that scout, I knew it was time to go crazy. Maximise every opportunity, keep going, push yourself as much as possible. I’ve never had an issue with hard work, and I‘ve always done the extra things. But from that moment I knew, if I didn’t make the most of this opportunity, I would regret it for the rest of my life.”

Curtis leaves UTC with a career he can rightly be proud of; a three-time 1st team All-SoCon, a two-time Doris Robinson Award finalist, and as a senior he was named a 1st team All-American and won the Jacobs Blocking Award. He was also named a team captain, and it’s that respect of his peers that gives Curtis the most satisfaction.

“I know, when I look back at my time at UTC, I’m going to cherish those relationships I made. All my teammates, the staff, teachers; I’ve always been the kind of guy who would just walk into anyone’s office and sit down, kick back and talk. Have a good laugh along the journey and make connections for life. But to see myself succeed both on and off the field is satisfying. I’m about to get my masters degree this Spring – hopefully I’ll get the opportunity to walk the stage!”

Whippin' Wit Curt

I’ve been speaking to McClendon Curtis for approximately twenty minutes so far, and it’s already clear there’s far more to this smiling giant than just a football player. Academically, he was the perfect student – boasting a 4.0 grade average, added to both the honour roll and Dean’s list every year,and was even a tutor in the Student-Athlete Enhancement Center. Two years ago, Curtis graduated with a degree in Sport Management, and as mentioned he’s close to attaining his Master’s in School/Teacher Leadership. So it shouldn’t surprise me to learn that McClendon was appointed to the NCAA Division I Football Oversight Committee – a prestigious position that only twelve student-athletes get named to each year. Curtis explains the responsibility, and what the role entails:

“The transfer portal is a big thing right now. Guys popping in and out. The committee allows me to bring a voice to discussions on any changes, or how we want to regulate it. It allows us to help educate anyone who’s thinking of jumping into the portal, what they can expect. Because right now, people use it for every reason. Coach don’t like me? I’m gone. Lack of game time? I’m gone. The more people using it, the bigger need for knowledge. Like, how many hours can coaches use with the players? Do they offer a good football and study balance? Coach Wright rarely uses the full allocation of practice hours, wants us to focus on academics too. But others are more intense. It’s this information that will help guys make the correct decisions. And it also allows us to help safeguard athletes and make sure everyone respects the rules.”

When he’s not busy becoming a football star, excelling in the classroom or educating his peers on the pitfalls of the NCAA, Curtis also indulges in another passion. A big foodie and impressive chef, his instagram page ‘Whippin’ Wit Curt’ has a cult following on the UTC campus – and has become something of a business opportunity:

“It started off when I lived on campus as a sophomore. One of my friends was impressed with my cooking, and told me I need to start selling it! So we set it up. I started off easy you know, wings, alfredo. Then I added some rotel to the menu, and some girls in the dorms told me to put it on fries, it was a Memphis thing! So it kinda grew and grew each year, and before you knew it I had a big market! It was like my Friday hustle. I’d go out and spend like $300, and everyone on campus could come and get some. I continued it when I left campus, and even know I dabble with it. I moved into a bit of catering, feeding my linebackers once. And now I get requests to cater for parties – I’m happy to cook and deliver the food, but I ain’t sticking around. But yeah – I throw down when it comes to the kitchen.”

"I Have To Show I Can Do Anything And Everything"

For now, all of McClendon Curtis’ side hustles must be shelved as he focuses on attaining the next goal in his career – becoming a professional football player. His exploits at UTC offered him an invitation to the Senior Bowl, the most prestigious all-star event of the pre-draft process. It’s the second time in two years that a Chattanooga o-lineman has headed to Mobile. Curtis was proud to follow in the footsteps of Cole Strange and show the watching world what he could do.

“I didn’t get that luxury of a surprise invite like Cole did last year. But at the same time I was just grateful for the opportunity you know. You literally don’t sit down for a moment – it was go-go-go from start to finish. Every team is in Mobile, and they’d just come to the group and pull you out as and when they wanted to talk to you. And I’d met a few of them beforehand, teams that came through Chatt such as the Jags, Chargers, Chiefs, Bills. They spoke to me again, was great to catch up, as well as some other scouts from different franchises. But pitting myself against the best competition down there in front of them all, being coached up by Houston Assistant Coach Jarrod James and Washington Assistant Coach Travelle Wharton – it was a privilege to learn from some of the best.”

The Senior Bowl has a habit of moving offensive linemen around, with scouts keen to see how prospects adapt to lining up at a different spot. Having spent almost all of his career at right guard (he spent time at left tackle in his senior season), Curtis was grateful to showcase his versatility:

“I definitely improved my game that week. I could feel the change from day one to day two to day three. And I showed out well in the game – played nearly the whole darn thing as we had guys dropping like flies. And I got to show my versatility too; in one-on-ones I played every position but center. I was at right guard in the game, my most natural spot, but had a couple of series at right tackle – never done that in a game before! It was different, but I adapted well to any position. People say as an offensive lineman, it’s hard to get both hands going. But I was moved around so much I felt like I was using both sides of my brain! But it was a big thing for me. I’m not an Alabama guy. I played for a small school. So I have to show I can do anything and everything. And even though I’d be a big ol’ center, I know how to ID, how to snap the ball. I showed that I can be of use to any team that has any need.”

Combine Preparations

The Senior Bowl was another box ticked on McClendon Curtis’ football journey. Next up is a pretty big one – heading to Indianapolis to work out at the NFL Combine. A yearly staple of draft season, Curtis is preparing to be poked and prodded and put through the ringer as teams try to find the small margins between prospects. The measurables are not in question; it’s all about the workout numbers:

“I’m out here in EXOS Pensacola in Florida, a group of us working with Willie Anderson. We’re practicing for those combine drills, but most if not all of us went to the Senior Bowl or Shrine Bowl, so there’s a big focus on recovery right now too. It’s a lot of work at the moment, so you gotta be clever. We’re getting into the finer details of our movement, learning how to maximise our athleticism. And we’ll ramp things up as the NFL Combine gets closer. Preparing for all those drills – I wanna get thirty on that bench press! I’m so close to getting that down.”

I can’t help but notice that Curtis talks about these few months with an excitement that other prospects don’t display. Make no mistake; preparing for the NFL Draft is tough. Whilst we’re all eating chicken wings and watching the playoffs, these guys are putting the hours in and honing their craft. For Curtis, he wouldn’t have it any other way:

“As a small school guy, I want to show them at every opportunity that I have the work ethic to get better. I work hard, bring it every day. So I want them to see I’m noticeably quicker, stronger than the last time they had eyes on me. I take learning well, adapt to the things coaches tell me and continue to better myself as a player. And I know, for some guys, this process is a slog. Not for me – this is a dream. I don’t take being invited to the Combine lightly. I’m grateful to show what I can do at the UTC pro day on March 30th. I’m excited for all these milestones ahead.”

McClendon's Next Home

For a man that has spent all of his life living in the heart of the South East of America, I was surprised to learn that McClendon Curtis had childhood dreams of heading to one of the most northern NFL destinations on the map and donning the famous green and yellow. Now though, he’s willing to wear any uniform he’s blessed to be given:

“I don’t know what it is, but I’ve always liked the Packers! I watched Green Bay a lot growing up. And right now, their offensive line is fun to study. I like the Jaguars too – I’ve got a soft spot for Maurice Jones-Drew, even though I’m a lineman. But you gotta go where you gotta go! I tell you, wherever wants me, I will LOVE to be there. I’m not afraid of any weather, a bit of snow doesn’t bother me. If you offer me a home, I’m coming.”

In classic McClendon fashion, Curtis plans on keeping his draft weekend exploits low key. It’s a moment he’s excited for, one that his start in life would never have suggested was possible. It’s this understanding that makes it his intention to share the moment with those he loves, the ones who helped him get to this stage:

“I think I’ll have everyone over to my house, keep it relaxed and watch the draft. Probably cook a little something, maybe not – I might take it easy after any NFL visits I get invited to! We’ll see. But that weekend, whatever happens, will be special. And if I’m given the opportunity of a shot at the NFL, it will be a dream come true. The Senior Bowl showed I wasn’t afraid to compete, and that won’t change at the next level. I’ve got grit. I’ve fought for everything. And if i’m a day two pick, a day three pick, go undrafted – it doesn’t matter. I’ve got a lot to offer and I’m ready to offer it to the team that wants me the most.”

Mock Draft

SIMON CARROLL

HEAD OF CFB/NFL DRAFT CONTENT

PREVIOUSLY THE FOUNDER OF NFL DRAFT UK, SIMON HAS BEEN COVERING COLLEGE FOOTBALL AND THE NFL DRAFT SINCE 2009. BASED IN MANCHESTER, SIMON IS ALSO CO-CREATOR & WEEKLY GUEST OF THE COLLAPSING POCKET PODCAST.

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A huge thank you to McClendon for taking the time to talk to us. Everyone at The Touchown wishes him well in his future career.