2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Joshua Samuel, RB, Austin Peay State
- Name: Joshua Samuel
- Height: 5’11”
- Weight: 215 lbs.
- Position: RB
- College: Austin Peay State
- Twitter: Thachosenone__
- Instagram: Jsamuel_5
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?
Out of high school, I went to Western Kentucky. After a couple years, I transferred to Jacksonville State where I recently received my Liberal Arts degree. I’m now at Austin Peay State pursuing my Master’s in Sports Management. During my time in college, I have participated in community outreach projects with the team. I really enjoyed reading to kids at Elementary Schools.
What do your teammates say is your best quality?
Being a man of great character who’s a leader. I’m unselfish and willing to do whatever it takes to put my team in position to win. I’m a team first guy and very easy to get along with. I’m also ready to work every day, never taking a day off.
What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
The coaches at Austin Peay brought me here to be an immediate impact. Being an older player, I am to set the standard and be a role model to the younger players. I describe myself as a downhill, North-South, type of runner, although my game has evolved into running routes and being more than just a “pound the rock” type of player. Most of my success has been with an inside zone gap scheme where I can utilize counter and power plays. One of the things that separates me as a prospect is my ability to adapt. Being part of a few programs has put me in situations where I’ve had to adjust to different coaches, teammates and environments, yet I have still found success.
Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
The one player that sticks out is Jermaine Johnson at Florida State. He’s an incredible athlete who was easily the best player on the field. He gave constant pressure and never took plays off. We had to make adjustments and know where he was on every play.
Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
I had some excellent teammates at Jacksonville State that are NFL caliber players. Guys like DJ Coleman and Nicario Harper stand out the most. They made me better, coming to work every day. They’ve moved on to Missouri and Louisville respectively where I know they will make an immediate impact. Markail Benton is a great player who is still there. He goes about his business every day and gets to work. He shows great instincts, beating players to the gap. He watches a lot of film and it shows. A young dog to keep an eye on is Jalen Swain. He’s very underrated.
Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
My sophomore year in high school, I broke my collarbone. It was very unfortunate because I had worked hard leading up to the season. It was during a preseason scrimmage, and I know that I was in line to be a starter before it happened. Going through rehab, my mom and dad were with me every step of the way, encouraging me, letting me know everything was okay and that my time would come. Being on the sideline that season, I was able to view the game differently, seeing things that maybe I would have done differently. I took time to watch games afterwards so that I could make the most of my time and prepare myself for when I was able to play. Getting back to work my junior season, I led the state in rushing which really propelled my career.
If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
I played some basketball in high school, but realistically I might try boxing. It’s a very self-motivated sport and I love the workout. Plus, I took karate when I was younger and the man-to-man competition is something that I really enjoy.
What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I’m most proud of graduating from college. It’s my biggest achievement, and I’m happy that I’ve made my parents proud.
Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
I had two games against Florida State. The first game in 2020, on my first carry, I ran an outside zone to the left. Once I got outside of the tackle box, I sprinted 20 yards down the field for the touchdown. What made that moment special was that my family was watching in the front of the endzone, and they were able to celebrate that moment with me.
Last year, we played Florida State again. We were able to get an upset victory. Zerrick Cooper pulled out a Hail Mary touchdown on the last play of the game in order to secure the win.
Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
My favorite all-time athlete is definitely Lebron James. He is a generational athlete. I’m a Philadelphia Eagles fan yet have a ton of respect for Saquon Barkley. He’s so strong and elusive. When healthy, he is one of the best in the league.
Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
Some of my favorite artists include Lil Baby, NBA YoungBoy and Future. My go-to pregame song is “Sum 2 Prove” by Lil Baby.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Wings from Kim’s Kitchen in Forest Park, Georgia.
Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
The Blind Side is a movie I really like. Denzel Washington is my favorite actor. Power is one of my favorite TV shows.
What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
I like working out. I’m very into music and really into fashion.
Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
When I’m playing football, I’m at peace on the field. It’s what I love to do and where I belong. I play because I never want to see my parents work again. They’ve done everything for me and raised me right. I also do it for myself. I want to show that if you put your mind to it that you can accomplish great things. I play football because I want to live out my dream of playing in the NFL.
Content Creator & Senior Writer for NFL Draft Diamonds. Independent Scouting Consultant.