CB Tariq Castro-Fields Press Conference

CB Tariq Castro-Fields

Press Conference – April 30, 2022

San Francisco 49ers

What was your contact with the 49ers leading up to the draft?

“I talked to them at the combine and some scouts called me as well.”

Can you describe your strengths and weaknesses as a cornerback?

“I feel like I came from a system where I did a whole lot. I ran cover-3 and man. You name it, we did it, so I’m well-versed in all coverages. I can cover, my size, my speed. Of course, I can work on my eyes and all the fundamentals. The league is super fundamental-based and that is what separates people. I’m just ready to work as hard as I can and go. This is amazing.”

Can you take us through the day getting the call from the 49ers and was your grandmother with you when you got the call?

“No, she was downstairs. I watched it with my teammates from high school and college. It was a super emotional day. Just waiting for your name to be called was the hardest part, but when the 49ers called me, my whole mood changed. I’m ready to go to work, no matter what. I’m ready to put my best foot forward and show the world what I can do.”

How familiar are you with the 49ers current cornerbacks and what excites you about playing with them?

“I know they have [CB] Ambry Thomas, he went to Michigan. I know they just got another guy in the draft. I’m kind of familiar with the system and the things that they do. I’m ready to learn with all the vets, just like I did in college when I came in. I was a sponge and tried to learn as much as I could and I just took off from there. I’m super happy to learn from all the vets there and I can’t wait to get to work.”

You played just three games in 2020. Did you have an injury and what was it?

“Yes. I was dealing with stingers.”

Are there any particular NFL cornerbacks that you have modeled your game after throughout your career?

“I wouldn’t say modeled, but definitely watched. Guys like [former NFL CB] Richard Sherman, just how smart he is. Guys like [Los Angeles Rams CB] Jalen Ramsey, [free agent CB] Kyle Fuller, [Buffalo Bills CB] Tre’Davious White, a lot of those guys are just good at the fundamentals and are dogs. When you add those two things, you’re kind of unstoppable.”

What are you most looking forward to in starting your NFL career?

“I think just to prove myself again. We are starting at square one. I’m going to be a rookie again and I can’t wait to shock the world and prove everything that I know. I can’t wait to bring it to the 49ers. I have family in The Bay, so this is a dream come true. It is a perfect spot for me and I can’t wait to go to work.”