2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Dajor Davenport, Edge, Concord University

• Name: Dajor Davenport
• Position: Edge
• College: Concord University
• Height: 6’4″
• Weight: 245 lbs
• Twitter: @OlboyDajor
• Instagram: @d_davenport9

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

As a young kid I fell in love with the game. I’ve been playing since I was 5yrs old. It’s my get away from everyday life. Football has brought me so much in life I’m beyond blessed because of it. I love the physicality and mentality you have to have in order to play it. Football creates bonds with individual that last a lifetime. It’s something I’ll never regret doing.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

Keeping the dream alive. Defy the odds and get the chance to become a professional athlete. I strive to be the best athlete and teammate I can possibly be. I will work hard both mentally and physically to achieve those goals. I want my name to be remembered as one of greats. I want people to see me and begin to believe in themselves and defy the obstacles in front of them just as I have. I am looking to make history and change a organization.

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

Jalen Hurts, I think his story and everything he’s been through is just overwhelming for any person. The passion and mentality he has is second to none. If I could sit down for a couple hours and just learn from him it’d be a blessing.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

From my younger days definitely starting my season with two pick sixes and just having fun with the people I grew up with. As I got to college they would be definitely overcoming everything that happened with our first coaching staff and being able to go mentality through that, but all the bonds I’ve created over the years with coaches and teammates are unexplainable. I wouldn’t have wanted my journey to have been any different. Achieving awards are exciting moments, but the moments with my teammates are memories I’ll never forget.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

My mother by far. Seeing everything that woman has done for is my reason why. She’s made sacrifices everyday for me and I can’t thank her enough for that. I just want to make her proud each and everyday.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

4-3. This is definitely my favorite defense. I can play stand up and be that rusher that’s coming off the edge. I’ll play in any scheme, but I feel like a 4-3 is the best defense. It’s a great base call and can stop everything.

What should we know about Dajor Davenport the person?

That I will truly surprise you. I’m a true testament to what it means to believe in yourself. I will never give up and I’m the most hardworking individual you’ll meet. I’m a joy to be around and I truly think I change the lives of those around me. I’m a guy that wants the best for everyone around him and truly wants to see you succeed. I will help and motivate you in any way I can. I’m always going to strive to be the best. I’m going to make an impact everyday. I just need a chance to prove it.

What stands out about your film the most?

My hustle on each play. My ability to get into the backfield and make plays. Having the speed to get around the edge then the athletic ability to bend and get into the pocket. The way I play the game is with a lot of physicality and emotion. Having that dawg mentality of winning each rep.

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

Mistakes are always going to happen in life and on the field. It’s about being able to learn from it and move on. You can’t dwell on the past or it’ll affect you in the future. There’s a reason the windshield is bigger than the review mirror is a saying I’ve lived by. You just have to be coachable. I want to challenge everyday. It’s the only way I’m going to get better.

What would a team get in a player like you?

His all. I’m an athlete that just wants to continue his dream. If a team takes a chance on me I promise they won’t forget it. They’re getting a versatile athlete that can play anywhere on the field. I want to help my team in any way that could lead us to a win. They would be getting a player that would truly amaze them from the first day.

What do you love the most about the game of football?

Everything. The bond the game creates and the life lessons you can learn from it are unexplainable. Football is more than a game to me it’s apart of life. I love the competition each and everyday. I love the grind for it. Being able to showcase your talents in front of individuals each week is a blessing. It’s a getaway from everyday life because when you put those cleats on and strap up that helmet nothing else matters but the game. I don’t see how you couldn’t love it.

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

Wyatt Pearson. He shows up everyday no matter what. He’s always gonna give you his best each day. He’s gonna support you and want what’s best for you. He’s a team first kinda guy and he’s always willing to help you with anything. Wyatt’s a teammate I’ll never forget as long as I play.