2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Davion Stockard, LB, Central Methodist University

• Name: Davion Stockard
• Position: Linebacker
• College: Central Methodist University
• Height: 6’2 
• Weight: 230
• Twitter: @Superstar_stock
• Instagram: __superstarstoc

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2023 NFL Draft? 

I am a athletic sideline to sideline linebacker and I am very physical at the point of attack. This season I earned First Team All Conference, and I was ranked first in the nation in forced fumbles for NAIA with 6. I finished this season with 117 tackles which was 1st in the Heart of America Conference and ranked me 6th nationally.

At what age were you first interested in the sport of football?

Since I was six I have loved the game of football. I’ve always loved how physical the game is. When I was little I used to go outside and play football in the grass for hours until my mom would call me in for dinner. I didn’t start watching NFL football until about 2008-09 when the Arizona Cardinals made their dream run to the superbowl but fell short to the Steelers. That year the Cardinals were so amazing. The duo of Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald— and you can’t forget Kurt Warner, he is one of my top QB’s of all time. And then on the defensive side you’ve got Karlos Dansby, Darnell Dockett, Rodgers-Cromatie, and Adrian Wilson, they were stacked with talent. That team is another reason I wanna play in the NFL. I want to be a part of a team as special as that one day. 

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

I am an extremely driven and hard worker. I always go the extra mile to be the best I can be. Whether that means showing up to practice hours early to mentally prepare, or building interpersonal bonds with my teammates. Ever since I was a kid all I ever knew was how to work and fight through adversity. No matter the obstacle you have to continue to strive to be the best version of yourself.

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be? 

If I could donate to one cause in the world it would be children with disabilities. My younger sister has dyslexia, and I see each and everyday how that affects her in life, school, and relationships. Anything that I can do to help the world be more accessible to her and understanding of her, I have to do. So donating to help further awareness and research not only for children but people in general with disabilities has been a desire of mine for a long time.

What is the best advice you have ever received? 

“Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.  Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”  

(Joshua:1-9)

Who was your childhood hero? 

My Grandfather was my childhood hero. He was a Marine Veteran. I can remember so many stories he used to tell me about his time in service while I was growing up. He’s one of the reasons I still play football to this day. He introduced me to the game. Growing up he was my father figure and he set a great foundation for his children and grandchildren. I was just blessed to be a part of it.

Who is the most underrated teammate in your locker room at your school? 

Labella! He works so hard in the weight room and on and off of the field, he deserves an opportunity. He pushes his limits each and everyday we workout and values the game of football and loves to learn. 

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

I’m really big on honesty, so liars are a big pet peeve of mine. 

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome? 

The hardest obstacle I still face to this day is being a father but having to be away from home because of college. Every parent understands that it is hard being away from your child for long periods of time. Football has a very tight schedule but I still make time to drive home and visit my daughter, Jazelle. I miss her hugs, her kisses, and overall being with her. Right now it is important I set a good foundation for her. 

Tell me something about your school and why it is so special to you?

Central Methodist found me when I graduated from Mizzou with my Bachelors in Communications. After earning my degree I was figuring out my next steps in life. After praying and communicating with Central Methodist, I earned a scholarship to get my masters degree in athletic administration. Throughout my college football experience I attended multiple institutions where I met friends that I will have for the rest of my life but at Central I’ve met people I can call my family. Central blessed me with an opportunity that changed my life.  I’ve created a family here and my experience here has been amazing. 

What is your favorite snack food?

 I don’t know if this counts as a snack, but whenever I get a chance I go buy vanilla ice cream with a hot apple pie.

What is the best part of football? 

I believe the best part of football is the brotherhood. There’s nothing like the bonds you form from going through wins and loses with your team. We have an opportunity to go to war for one another on the field. Those are members of my troop.  

If you could sell yourself in one sentence what would you say? 

My name is Davion Stockard, I’m the captain of my football team, a father to my baby girl, and currently a 4.0 masters student.

If you could compare your play to one player in the NFL who would it be? 

Raquan Smith (Chicago Bears /Baltimore Ravens), because in the game he is so physical at the point of attack and the way that he visualizes the field and puts himself in position to make plays “reminds me of my own gameplay”. 

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why? 

My Grandfather, Ray Lewis, and Inky Johnson. All three of these men are very wise not only in football but in life. They all have a great motivational spirit that will have me engaged. I believe they would be able to give me guidance on what steps to take and how to handle situations when certain things come about.