2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Colton Dowell, WR, Tennessee-Martin

• Name: Colton Dowell
• Height: 6’3”
• Weight: 210 lbs.
• Position: WR
• College: University of Tennessee at Martin
• Twitter: ColtonDowell2
• Instagram: Colton_Dowell15

Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
My experience has been a blessing. I’ve grown so much as a student and man over the years. I recently graduated with my degree in Exercise Science. I’m now pursuing my master’s in Sports Coaching with the intent of maybe coaching after my football days are done. I am a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Inc, serving as the polemarch and leader of our chapter. I’ve also been involved with SHAPE Club which is designed for students majoring in Health and Human Performance.

What do you think your teammates would say is your best quality?
I’m a good teammate who’s approachable and very easy-going. My teammates put a lot of trust in me on and off the field.

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
In our offense, my role is the X receiver where I’m singled up on one side, giving my QB a great target against man coverage. I can be a deep threat or possession WR. I’m able to maneuver in my routes and make plays. I’m often lined up outside although I have snaps at slot and TE. We have a very balanced approach on offense whether it’s passing or rushing. I’m very effective when I’m called upon to be a blocker. I also have experience on special teams, lining up in the B gap on punt returns and blocking for our team.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
Jacquez Payton played for Jacksonville State before transferring to Alabama State. He matched up well with me and challenged me. He trusted his speed and technique, and was very calm and collected going about his business.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
Jaylon Moore was the veteran starter for UT-Martin when I first got here. I came to view him as a big brother who set the right example. He came to work every day and was a leader in our program. He made it to the NFL with the Ravens.

We have 2 very impressive leaders on our defense in John Ford and Deven Sims. John is my frat brother. He can be very intense and serious. I love his drive and competitiveness. Deven Sims is the same way. He doesn’t talk a lot, but when he does, everyone listens. We push each other every day in practice.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
Having an injury last year was somewhat frustrating. In our game against Eastern Illinois, I sustained a stress fracture in my foot which ended my season. Usually, I’m a happy, easy-going person, but that challenged me. It was a mental struggle. I had to wear a boot on the sideline while watching my teammates play. I decided to be the best teammate that I could be, showing my support for the team and cheering for others. It was a humbling experience. I had to swallow my feelings and learn how to become a better leader. I learned a lot about myself and a sense of perspective. I realized nothing is going to last forever and that I need to appreciate every opportunity I have to play. I’m now able to buy in, relax and have fun playing the game. I also took time to learn exercises that I now incorporate in my fitness routine. Those preventive measures should help me moving forward.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
Baseball. It was my first sport. I played that up until my sophomore year in high school.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement so far?
Graduating from college is something that I am really proud of. Even though I have the distinction of being a 3-time All-Conference player, I am much happier when we achieve our team goals.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
During the Spring season of 2021, we played a close game against Austin Peay. As the game was winding down, our starting QB went down with a terrible leg injury. We were tied 34-34, and our odds weren’t looking good. Our backup QB was Stewart Howell. He knew that I had his back. He trusted me on our final drive with 2 great throws. The last one, I had cut across the middle, getting the ball with a sliding catch. With 2 seconds left on the clock, we went for the FG and won the game 37-34.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
I’m a Tennessee Titans fan. My favorite player is Davante Adams. He’s a physical receiver that gets off the line very well. He’s a great player and someone I try to emulate.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
Cage the Elephant is an alternative rock band that I like. Before games, I like staying calm and listening to classical music.

What is your favorite comfort food?
My Grandma’s mashed potatoes and macaroni.

Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
My favorite TV show is The Office. I enjoy movies in the Marvel Universe. Mark Wahlberg is one of my favorite actors.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
I enjoy going hiking. I’ve also picked up the guitar.

Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
I enjoy football because it’s the ultimate team sport. Without the entire team’s effort, it’s hard to be successful. No other sport comes close. The bonds you make are forever.

I’m internally motivated, setting high goals for myself. I’m also motivated by my family who has provided so much support. I can’t let them down.