2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Steven Duncan, QB, Tarleton State

• Name: Steven Duncan
• Height: 6’5”
• Weight: 237 lbs.
• Position: QB
• College: Tarleton State University
• Twitter: stevenduncan_11
• Instagram: stevenduncan_11

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?

I obtained my undergrad at Western Kentucky in Business Management with a focus in Human Resources. I’ve also earned my Masters in Business Administration. Moving forward I’m working on my Masters in Social Media and Marketing. I’ve been a graduate assistant for the business college, helping professors grade papers and doing research. I’ve also enjoyed serving in our community. I’ve volunteered with the Special Olympics, and I’ve helped the Humane Society on and off throughout my time in college.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?

They would say my ability to lead. Younger guys look up to me as the example on and off the field. I have the ability to communicate and be there anytime any of my teammates have a need.

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

During my time at WKU, I played in a pro-style system, and I was occasionally under center. Here at Tarleton, we play a lot of shotgun and spread the ball around. I think pro-style suits me best. People may not see me as a run threat, but I’m hard to take down, and I can scramble when I need to. I have a strong arm where I can place the ball anywhere from the hash to the sideline. I’ve also been through 4 different head coaches and have learned many different play books. With my experience, I know that I can beat teams with my mind.

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

One of my more challenging competitors was Robert Rochell who played for Central Arkansas (He currently plays for the Rams). His film is really good. He’s fast, long, and does everything right.

One of the guys that I was happy to have on my team was DeAngelo Malone. I played with him for 3 years (He just recently got drafted in the 3rd round by the Falcons). DeAngelo was just different. He’s so scheme-diverse and brought fear into opposing QBs. He’s one of the best players I’ve ever seen, and he pushed me early on in my development.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?

All of our OL are passionate about the game. Kendall Dearth and Austin Whitehead anchor our line. Kendall is a great athlete and leader. Austin doesn’t get the credit he deserves. He’s smart, hardworking, strong, and comes to work every day. We bond very well, and I’m glad that he’s my center.

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

My last year at WKU, I broke my foot versus Louisville. It was during the 2nd drive coming out at half. I knew something was wrong and that I was going to need surgery. Yet, I remained in the game and actually finished it with a broken foot. Afterward, I had to go through the mental struggle of surgery and rehab. Throughout my recovery, I still remained loyal to my teammates and led from the sideline as best as I could.

Last July, I went through the loss of my step-mom. Seeing someone so close to you pass away really opens up your eyes to how short life is. It gave me a new perspective on life and really made me a better leader, being able to love my family and teammates.

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

Basketball. I loved playing it while I was growing up. I played throughout middle school and high school. We played in a very good region and were fairly successful.

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

I’m very proud of my academic achievements. I’m the 2nd family in my family to graduate from college, 1st with a master’s. I was named Academic All-Conference.

Regarding my football achievements, I’m top 5 in nearly every career category at Tarleton including career completion percentage.

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

My first touchdown is very special to me. During my redshirt freshman year, I was coming off a bad game. We were playing against Ball State, and I came in at the half. We were in a position to score, and I threw a TD to Mik’Quan Dean. I actually threw 2 TD passes to him including the game-winning touchdown which was an 18-yard pass with about 5 minutes left in the game.

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

Tom Brady is definitely my favorite player of all time. I enjoy how he leads, plays the game, and wins. He has such a great story of being a late-round draft pick that becomes the greatest player of all time.

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

I’m into country music and enjoy artists like Eric Church.

What is your favorite comfort food?

Steak and potatoes with Heinz 57 is definitely my favorite meal. If I don’t make it myself, I like to go to Hall’s Chophouse in Charleston, SC.

Do you have a favorite movie, TV show, or actor?

My favorite movie is Friday Night Lights. Peaky Blinders is a TV show that I like to watch. Tom Hardy is one of my favorite actors.

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

I like being out of the outdoors whether it’s hunting for whitetail or fishing for bass.

Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?

I play because I love everything about it. I love studying and playing the game. I love my teammates and being around them every day. Football is always on my mind.

My dad was the one that introduced me to the game. He had played for Gardner-Webb and won a national championship in 1992. He’s been my main motivator ever since playing catch with him as a little kid. I know I will always love the game of football.