2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jake Balderrama, OL, Kansas Wesleyan University

• Name: Jake Balderrama
• Position: OL
• College: Kansas Wesleyan University
• Height: 6’4″
• Weight: 305 lbs
• Twitter: @balderrama_jake
• Instagram: @_jakebaldy

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

My dad had me fascinated with football since I could remember. I played other sports but none of them were as physical as football. The violent aspect of football, made me want to be a football player.

What teammate goes hardest up against you in practice?

Chris Scott and Cole Parker. Both bring it every practice, every rep.

What sets you apart from other offensive linemen?

I finish blocks and play till the whistle. I block very well at the 2nd level. I’m fast with good feet. I’m patient with my pass blocking but not passive.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

James Harrison. He put fear into grown men and has incredible work ethic. I’d love to pick his brain on what he sees from the other side of the ball and hear what techniques have worked against him. I feel I’d gain a lot of knowledge hanging out with the physical 5 times pro bowler.

What should we know about Jake Balderrama the person?

I have a love for helping others. I’m optimistic no matter the situation. Overall I am extremely blessed, and would like to be a light in peoples lives.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

Winning football games. Being the best leader I can be. Reaching team set goals.Playing that purple team from Winfield, Kansas.

What do you think are the keys to success on the football field?

Being coachable along with being able to retain information well. Being selfless and loyal. Never becoming complacent. Treat meetings, practices, and training room sessions, like a try out.

What is your favorite offensive scheme and why?

Power spread. I love running power and counter. I’m able to utilize my athleticism, and a lot of times I have key assignments I must execute. I like being able to pull from the tackle position. It’s high tempo, which is a great opportunity for the offensive line to get off the ball before the defensive line can get set.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I pray to God. I pray for guidance throughout challenges on and off the field. I trust in the Lord to lead me on the right path when adversity arises, always.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A versatile leader. Someone you can rely on for anything. Someone obsessed with getting better everyday. A coachable player who adapts well in various circumstances and brings enthusiastic optimism to the program.

How do you prepare for games?

Mentally. Start off the week watching film, dissecting each player I’ll possibly be going against. I wake up on game day to review all the film I’ve watched throughout the week and go over what I need to fix from the prior game. physically. I make sure I’m fully hydrated. I make sure I eat something light. I roll out and stretch twice before going out to warm up. I make sure there’s music playing in my headphones or loudly on a speaker. Moments before kick off I say a prayer.

If there was a billboard with 5 of your traits on it which 5 traits would be up there?

Loyal, determined, approachable, charismatic and honest.