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2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Dexter Fitzpatrick Jr., LB, Mars Hill

Dexter Fitzpatrick is a standout player and hard-hitting linebacker at Mars Hill University. He recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds writer Jimmy Williams.
Dexter Fitzpatrick is a standout player and hard-hitting linebacker at Mars Hill University. He recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds writer Jimmy Williams.
  • Name: Dexter Fitzpatrick Jr.
  • Height: 6’2”
  • Weight: 225 lbs.
  • Position: LB
  • College: Mars Hill University
  • Twitter: DexterF_22
  • Instagram: Dexterfitzpatrick_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 am majoring in Integrated Health Science. Other than that, I have participated in community service projects with my team including making food baskets for the homeless.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?
My leadership. I keep guys focused when we are dealing with adversity.

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

I’m the spark plug of our defense, having the ability to set the tone early. I have experience playing every LB position (Mike, Will, and Sam). My versatility sets me apart. I can be in the box, fill my gap or rush the passer. We have a base 4-3 defense where I’m typically the MLB although they move me around depending on the situation. I have also excelled in a 3-4 defense during my career. I’ve been the starter ever since being a freshman and now I’m the team captain. I’m also happy to be on special teams. On kickoffs and punts, I’m able to run down, avoid blocks and tackle the ball carrier. 

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
Lenoir-Rhyne had a great specimen in Dareke Young. He knew we always had to keep him under control.

Dexter Fitzpatrick is a standout player and hard-hitting linebacker at Mars Hill University. He recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds writer Jimmy Williams.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
Damipi Lamboni has worked like a dog every day since being a freshman, and he never gets the credit he deserves. Landon Honeycutt is also a strong hard worker who is always around the ball.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
My junior year of high school, I tore my labrum participating at the State wrestling tournament. I honestly didn’t know it was torn until I got to college. I was a little depressed and didn’t want to stop playing. Yet, the people around me encouraged me. My coaches would tell me to stay positive and be patient. I got my surgery at the end of last season. My injury really didn’t slow me down the past few seasons. Now being 100% healthy, there’s no telling what I’ll be able to do this upcoming season.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
Wrestling. I started wrestling my freshman year of high school. I ended up placing 3rd in the State Tournament as a junior. Although, I came back as a senior and won State. I actually had opportunities to wrestle in college, but I decided to play football instead.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I’m very proud that me and my sister were able to get scholarships so that my mom didn’t have to worry about tuition. I also led our conference in sacks last season (9). I’m a 2-time All-Conference player as well as All-Region and All-American Honors. One of my biggest achievements was being named Conference Defensive Freshman of the year.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
My first college sack was very special. We were playing Newberry back in 2019. We were up 20-19, they had the ball with about a minute left in the game. We called an outside blitz. I beat the RB who was in pass protection, and I got to the QB for a sack. We sacked them again the following play to seal our win.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
Darius Leonard is one of my favorite players. He is always around the football, wreaking havoc and making crucial plays. He’s very good at creating turnovers which is what I try to add to my game.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
My favorite music artist is Hunxho. NBA YoungBoy’s “Lil Top” is a song I like to listen to before a game.

What is your favorite comfort food?
My girlfriend’s mother makes pupusas which I really love.

Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
One of my favorite movies is Forrest Gump. Naruto is an anime that I enjoy watching.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
One of my talents is that I can play piano. I’ve been playing since I was about 12. I also like fashion a lot. When I’m just around the house chilling, I might play Call of Duty.

Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
Football is where I can be myself. I love the brotherhood and how we are able to overcome adversity together and enjoy winning. The grind of football helps with discipline, and prepares me for the real world. My mom motivates me the most. As a single mom, there were times that she went without so that my sister and me had what we needed. So, I like to honor my mom while I play given all the sacrifices that she has made.

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