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2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jerry Garner, DE, Mississippi Valley State University

Jerry Garner MVSU
Jerry Garner the solid pass rusher from Mississippi Valley State University recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds writer Jimmy Williams.
  • Name: Jerry Garner
  • Height: 6’2”
  • Weight: 250
  • Position: DE
  • College: Mississippi Valley State University
  • Twitter: @Jerry Garner48

Tell us about your university/college. Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?

Mississippi Valley State University is a very family oriented campus. The campus is small and we make do with what we have. I participated in the National Society of Black Engineers and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

How did you end up at Mississippi Valley State University?

The recruiter at the time, which was Jeff Sawyer, really sold the school and made me feel comfortable. He was an alumni of my high school and looked out for me when I got there.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?

They would probably say my ability to lead by example. I’m not a very vocal leader but they know my actions will speak for me.

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

I would say I see myself as the guy everybody expects to do their job and not try to steal the show. The scheme that best fits me is a 4-3, and I say that because it gives me a certain gap to cover and in pass rush I get that one on one majority of the time. I really believe I can adapt to any scheme though.

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

The tackle who got drafted in the first round in 2019 from ASU, Tytus Howard.

Jerry Garner Mississippi Valley State
MVSU pass rusher Jerry Garner is a beast

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?

Tracy Thompkins, he had a real standout season that just past. I’m surprised he hasn’t been signed yet he could be a real asset to somebody.

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

I would say when I was injured in high school. I was in a basketball tournament in high school and I broke my femur and when I was in surgery I had an allergic reaction to the anesthesia called Malignant hyperthermia and I ended up in the ICU for 3 days. The doctors were saying I could have died or even had brain damage, but God had something in store for me and he’s definitely showing me now.

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

Something I am most proud of is the accolades I received this past season for my play. My biggest achievement is yet to come. I’m proud of how much I’ve achieved so far but I know God has more in store.

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

This past season against JSU we had them on our 5 yard line and it was 4th down. They ran an option and the quarterback pitched it the last minute. Kelontae Daniels went underneath the running back and I caught him in the air, which led to us having a 21-0 lead.

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

I would most likely play basketball that was really my first love.

What was your major/minor? Other than football, what would be your dream job?

My major is Engineering Technology with a concentration in Architectural Construction. My dream job would be to be a Civil Engineer or anything towards that field of work.

What have you been working on in the off-season?

My relationship with God and just staying in shape and perfecting my craft. I’ve been doing more cardio based workouts and drills to work on my footwork and hands.

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

As of right now, Cameron Jordan is someone I’ve been watching a lot lately and the Saints are my favorite team.

Check out 2021 Small School Rankings presented by Draft Diamonds

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

In my spare time I usually listen to music, chill with my family , or I’ll go hoop with my guys. A secret talent I have is that I can sing a lot of people don’t know that.

https://twitter.com/jerrygarner48/status/1229807636394233862

Why do you play football?

I’ve always wanted to since I was six, and I’ve grown to love it tremendously, just the whole process of it.

Who or what motivates you the most?

My immediate family for sure and the young men that look up to me. They push me to be a better man and the one to show them you can make it out the right way.

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