2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jordan Carter, DB, Southern University

• Name: Jordan Carter
• Position: Defensive Back
• Height: 5’10”
• Weight: 195 lbs
• School: Southern University
• Level: Division I FCS – Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC)
• Twitter: ayoocarter_
• Instagram: jc.iv_

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?

– In college, I Majored in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Social Justice. I graduated from Bowie State University with a 3.4 GPA. I am currently in my third semester pursuing an MBA with a concentration in entrepreneurship here at Southern University A&M College. While in school I joined the greatest fraternity on earth Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. I was also a part of Bulldog Scholars Academy as a mentor. I mentored incoming freshmen transitioning from high school to college. I would give them knowledge and advice on how to make the best transition into this new chapter they were embarking on. 

What do your teammates say is your best quality?

– My teammates would say my best quality is that I’m a selfless leader. I am a teammate who will do whatever it takes to win. I will adapt to any change if it is for the betterment of the team. I lead by example and hold my teammates accountable as they do the same for me. I’m a person who they can come to for coaching or advice based on the passion that I have for this game and the relationship I have with my teammates.  I’m a person who believes in WE vs ME. 

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

– The role that I am in currently is a captain/Team leader. I am the leader of Southern University Secondary. My play and accolades have earned the respect of my teammates. This is a position that I do not take for granted. I embrace this leadership role and plan to lead this defense and this team to a national championship.

– I feel as though either an even or odd front best suit me. It allows me to play to my strengths which are being in the nickel/Strong Safety position. This allows me to be physical and show my versatility with being in the box and coverage skills.

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

– The best player I played against in college would have to be Xavier Smith of FAMU Rattlers. Due to his versatility and route running. 

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?

– My teammate that impresses me the most would be Jalen Campbell. Jalen displays day in and day out his ability to be a force in the run game as well as a person who creates turnovers. 

What makes you different from others in your position? 

– First and foremost, I am a student of the game. I understand different concepts and packages based on my experiences of competing on a high level and I am very intuitive of plays before they develop. Also, my intuitiveness allows me to be a field general to help make the necessary adjustments to lead my team to success. 

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

– During my freshman year to sophomore year of high school I had to overcome a lot of deaths in my immediate family. Due to illnesses and tragic accidents. I had to remain focused on my end goal and create my own narrative while remembering my loved ones. 

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

– I would play basketball if I didn’t play football. Where I come from growing up in the DMV we are known for sports, football, and basketball. We have numerous professional athletes who shine a light on the DMV area.

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

– One achievement that I am most proud of and I think speaks volumes to my character is keeping my promise to my mother that she would not have to worry about paying for school. This shows my dedication and how important it is to have a WHY for doing the things that you want to do. 

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

– This past season I played in the 49^th Bayou classic. I scored a 50-yard fumble recovery against Grambling State University. This day was not just another game. It was the birthday of my deceased grandfather who has been deceased for 16 years. I know he was there watching me and that I made him proud. 

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

– One of my favorite players to watch and learn from is Jamal Adams. Our play style is very similar. As we both play very physically in the box and are savvy in coverage. 

What gets you “pumped up” before a game?

– The love of the game is what gets me pumped. I don’t take for granted the opportunity I get to take the field every Saturday and showcase my talent to the fans and the University I represent. 

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

– Things that I do in my spare time and enjoy doing is being with family. I am a very family-oriented guy. My past experiences have allowed my family and I to get closer and closer each day and my relationship with them is something that I cherish. Some hobbies that I have is designing for my Clothing brand. I love fashion and the way it allows you to express yourself. 

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

– The reason I play football is because this game has changed my life and has the potential to change the people around me. It has allowed me to meet new people from all around the world from different types of walks of life. 

– My “WHY” is simply family and proving to everyone who counted me out that I am not another statistic that this society gives us young African American men. I have promises that I intend to keep and people that I want to see get my name called in this year’s upcoming Draft. 

What do you want NFL teams to know about you?

– They will be getting a guy who will come to work every day and work to be great. A guy who is willing to be selfless and not selfish. A player who is willing to put in the work to achieve team and individual goals. As well as be a guy who intends to learn from vets and be an ambassador for the league and the team.