Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Jacques Alston, RB, North Carolina Wesleyan

Every year, NFL Draft Diamonds brings our readers the best in depth interviews on the internet. We specialize in giving players an opportunity to showcase their talents on our website. We conducted interviews last year with over 300 plus players. We want you to enjoy our interviews, because when these young men are in the league, we will not be surprised, and neither should you. 

What is your name?

My name is Jacques Alston but everyone calls me Jay Alston

Where do you play college football?

I played football for North Carolina Wesleyan College.

How many teams were recruiting you out of high school?

Out of High School, I was really only recruited by two schools

How did you choose your school?

I chose NC Wesleyan because of location, and the visit.

Where are you from?

I’m from Wilson, North Carolina but was raised in Kenly, North Carolina.

Who is your role model, and why?

My Uncle was my role model. My Uncle was my role model because he was the man of the house, and he helped my mother when she needed it. He always took care of my grandmother. He passed away during my Junior year in high school which took a big toll on me. He’s been my motivation for success ever since.

Have any scouts met with you yet, and if so what are they saying?

I met the Jaguars scout and he said that I would have to show up and show out at the National Bowl game because of my size.

Did you play any other sports growing up?

I ran track and played basketball, but football is my everything so I stuck with it. I played slot receiver and kick returner.

Did you play any other positions in football?

What separates me from others is that I’m explosive, strong, dynamic, and underrated which helps me stay level headed.

At your position, what separates you from others?

Many believe because of my size, I am not a factor, but when I step on the field I’m on a different level from others. I make plays and at anytime  I could break for a big run. It could happen at any moment.

When you are breaking down film, what do you look for?

When looking at game film I look for my opponents weaknesses. I study my mistakes, and what I have to work on as well.

Who was the toughest player you ever faced?

The toughest player I ever played was definitely Gary Allen from the All Star Game. He was a physical, and explosive defensive end.

If you could compare your play to one player in the NFL who would it be and why?

I would compare myself to Darren Sproles, Brandon Cook, and Barry Sanders. They are all small and my size. They make big plays at any moment.

What was the biggest obstacle in your life you had to overcome, and how did you overcome it?

The most difficult thing in my life I had to face was dealing with the passing of my Uncle. I was forced to step up and be the man of the house.

Do you have any pre-game rituals?

Before every game I leave my cleats un-tied, straps un-buckled, jersey half way up and I never speak.

What is your biggest strength?

I feel my biggest strength is my game.  I feel I can do it all.

What is your biggest weakness?

There is nothing that I can’t do. I don’t have a weakness!

If I were a GM and gave you a second to sell yourself, what would you say?

Not everyone get a chance like this. This is my passion and this is what I love to do. I thank God for giving me this opportunity and gift to play this sport. I may be small but I can play. There are a bunch of people bigger than me, but some can not do what I do on the field. I am playing to earn a contract at the next level and hopefully will be able to take care of my family.

Who was your favorite player and NFL team growing up?

My favorite players growing up were Barry Sanders and Bo Jackson. My favorite NFL team is the Philadelphia Eagles.

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would you choose?

Three people I wish I could have dinner with are my Uncle, Barry Sanders and Ray Lewis. My Uncle because I miss him and I wish he could see all I’ve accomplished in life. Barry Sanders because he was the best athlete ever. Ray Lewis because he is a great mentor and motivational speaker.