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2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jared Brinkman, DL, Northern Iowa

Jared Brinkman Northern Iowa
The University of Northern Iowa defensive lineman Jared Brinkman is considered by many to be one of the top prospects out of the small school ranks. He recently sat down for an interview with Draft Diamond’s writer Jimmy Williams.
  • Name: Jared Brinkman
  • Height: 6’1”
  • Weight: 295 lbs
  • Position: DL
  • College: University of Northern Iowa
  • Twitter: @brinkman_jared

Tell us about your university/college. What was your major/minor? How is campus life?

I go to the University of Northern Iowa and am majoring in physical education with a minor in health.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?

I think my teammates would say that I am selfless and would put in the team in front of everything. 

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?

I’m a D-Tackle/Nose guard. I’m a run stopper inside and still have the ability to have a good pass rush.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?

Zack Johnson, North Dakota State

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?

Elerson Smith who is a D End on my side. He’s one of the best pass rushers in the entire country and makes the entire unit better.

Check out NFL Draft Diamonds 2021 Small School Rankings

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.

My sophomore year, I had an ankle injury that I eventually got surgery on after the season. Having to rehab and play the rest of the season on a bad ankle was hard.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?

Wrestling or track. I was a 2-time heavyweight state champ and a shot put state champ my senior year (65′ 2.25″).

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?

Being able to use what I’ve learned from the sport of football and helping others, and showing them how the game of football can apply to life

Describe one of the most memorable plays or moments of your collegiate career.

My two sacks against Iowa.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?

My favorite team is the Carolina Panthers. I love watching guys like Aaron Donald and Ndamukong Suh and watching their technique.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?

Travis Scott, rap and 80s rock.

What is your favorite comfort food?

Pizza

Do you have a favorite movie or actor?

Leonardo DiCaprio

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies?

Working out, hanging out with friends and family

Who or what motivates you the most?

Proving everyone that said I couldn’t wrong.

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