2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jake Parks, OL, UC Davis

• Name: Jake Parks
• Position: OL
• College: University of California-Davis
• Height: 6’3″
• Weight: 285 lbs
• Twitter: @_JakeParks_
• Instagram: @_jakeparks_

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

Hearing my dad’s high school football stories about him and his teammates. He’s still close with a bunch of them today and I was more interested in gaining friends for life.

What sets you apart from other offensive linemen?

I would say my work ethic and attention to detail. I think it’s pointless to just go through the motions, when it’s time to work it’s time to work.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

The first one that comes to mind is starting on varsity my sophomore year of high school. The older guys really showed me what it took to play at a high level daily. Another would be making my freshman start against San Jose St. it was just such a surreal experience. Lastly, beating Weber St. this past year. That program has been playing at a high level for such a long time. Us being able to beat them shows our program’s hunger to get consistently better.

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

Joe Thomas, I would want to learn about his mentality. 10,000 consecutive snaps is no easy feat and I would want to learn more about what it took for him to play at the highest level each week. Also, he’s a great cook and I would love to get some lessons from him.

How do you prepare for games?

Beginning of the week is usually a big emphasis on watching film and seeing if the opponent has any tendencies I can use against them. The later it gets in the week I try to visualize what moves the guys I’m going against that week would use and have the scout team guys try to mimic those moves. This helps me mentally and physically prepare for my opponent.

What should we know about Jake Parks the person?

I’m a hard worker and goal oriented. I find it fun being a part of a team and contributing in different ways then I would’ve thought I needed to in order for us to succeed.

What is your favorite offensive scheme and why?

Power is probably my favorite play to run. Being the puller and leading the ball carrier into the end zone is such a great feeling.

What type of energy do you bring onto the football field?

I bring enthusiasm to the game but I’m not into needing a pep talk to get fired up before taking the field. I love to play the game through the whistle, not just to the whistle.

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

I believe it’s vital to have a support group that I can rely on. I have different people in my life I can turn to for advice in different situations whether that be friends or family. I’m fortunate enough to be able to turn to my mom or dad with any challenge I may have.

What would a team get in a player like you?

They’d get someone that loves to be a student of the game. I enjoy watching film, trying out new techniques, and learning new drills. The game is constantly evolving and I try to stay at the forefront of it.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

I’m looking forward to making a run at the conference championship. Our first five games will be tough and a great challenge for us but I think we’ll come out better. Personally, I’m looking to build off of last season in terms of my execution. I’m excited to use a few new techniques I’ve picked up and have been working on this off-season.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

Justin Poerio he plays wide receiver for us. It’s been amazing to see him progress through the program from a redshirt, scout team guy to being one of our key receivers. His work ethic and his style of play is what I like best about him. He comes in ready to work each day and is so detailed oriented.