During the college football season and even after it concluded, Northwestern cornerback Greg Newsome II shot up draft boards. He’s become a household name and will likely be one of two Wildcats taken in the first round of this year’s NFL Draft, along with offensive lineman Rashawn Slater.

Speaking with the media recently, former teammate and current Northwestern defensive back A.J. Hampton how Newsome has been able to climb in draft boards and what sets him apart from others at the position. Hampton said the biggest thing is mindset.

“Greg thinks he’s the best at everything, no matter what it is. And that’s why I love Greg. We’re playing a video game, he thinks he’s the best at that. It’s just that chip on his shoulder. He takes everything personally. He wants to be the best and he wants to win,” Hampton said. “And that’s one thing I’ve been trying to transfer to the young guys. I’m really glad he transferred it over to me. Because when you play with that chip on your shoulder, that ‘Why not me?’ it really takes you to a totally different level.”

Hampton also acknowledged that Newsome has great technique and excellent skill, but said the cornerback’s mentality is the biggest advantage he has.

In Northwestern’s B1G West title season in 2020, Newsome emerged as one of the top secondary players in the B1G. He ended the year with 12 tackles, 9 pass break-ups and an interception. He’s been graded by several analysts as one of the top CBs in the class.

Next week, we’ll find out where Newsome lands with the NFL Draft scheduled for Thursday, April 29 through Saturday, May 1.